Indications 

Implanon implant is a contraceptive method that contains etonogestrel, a hormone that acts to prevent ovulation, which is the release of an egg from an ovary. Etonogestrel brings about changes in the cervical mucus and uterine lining, making it more challenging for sperm to reach the uterus and for a fertilized egg to attach to the uterus. 

Key points about Implanon implant: 

• Purpose: 
  • Implanon implant is utilized as a form of contraception to effectively prevent pregnancy. 
• Delivery System: 
  • The contraceptive medicine is housed within a small, slender plastic rod that is inserted beneath the skin of the upper arm. 
  • The medicine is gradually released into the body over a period of time. 
• Duration of Effectiveness: 
  • Once inserted, the rod can provide continuous contraceptive protection for a duration of up to 3 years. 

Uses and Dosage 

Before the insertion of the rod, review the Patient Information Leaflet provided by your pharmacist or healthcare provider. Your doctor will provide an Informed Consent form, which should be read and signed. Furthermore, you will receive a User Card that indicates the insertion date and location of the rod on your body. Ensure to retain the card and utilize it as a reminder for scheduling the appointment to have the rod removed. If you have any inquiries, consult your doctor or pharmacist. 

Consider the following instructions regarding the placement of the rod: 

• Consult your doctor to determine the most suitable time for scheduling your appointment for rod insertion. Your doctor may advise you to undergo a pregnancy test beforehand. 
• Typically, the medication begins its effect immediately when the rod is inserted within the first 5 days of your menstrual cycle. If your appointment falls outside this timeframe, you may need to use a non-hormonal method of birth control (such as condoms, diaphragm, spermicide) for the initial 7 days following rod placement. Discuss with your doctor whether backup birth control is necessary. 

The rod will be inserted beneath the skin in your upper arm by a qualified healthcare professional. Generally, it will be placed in the arm opposite to your dominant hand. Ensure that you can feel the rod beneath your skin once it has been inserted. Promptly notify your doctor if you are unable to feel the rod, suspect any damage or bending, or encounter any abnormalities. 

After the rod is placed, there will be two bandages covering the insertion site. Retain the top bandage for a duration of 24 hours. The smaller bandage should be kept as instructed by your doctor, typically for 3 to 5 days. Maintain cleanliness and ensure the bandage remains dry. 

Have the rod removed after a period of 3 years. If continued birth control is desired, the rod can be replaced. A trained healthcare professional can remove the rod at any time, either upon discontinuation of birth control or in the event of experiencing side effects. 

Side Effects 

Allergic Reaction

Seek immediate medical assistance if you experience signs of an allergic reaction to Implanon, including: 

• Hives 
• Difficulty breathing 
• Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat 

Serious Side Effects

Contact your doctor promptly if you encounter any of the following serious effects: 

• Warmth, redness, swelling, or oozing at the implant insertion site 
• Severe pain or cramping in the pelvic area (may be unilateral) 
• Sudden numbness or weakness, particularly on one side of the body, along with a sudden severe headache, slurred speech, vision or balance problems 
• Abrupt onset of coughing, wheezing, rapid breathing, or coughing up blood 
• Pain, swelling, warmth, or redness in one or both legs 
• Chest pain, feeling of heaviness, pain radiating to the jaw or shoulder, nausea, sweating, general malaise 
• Swelling in the hands, ankles, or feet 
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes) 
• Detection of a breast lump 
• Symptoms of depression, such as sleep disturbances, weakness, fatigue, and mood changes 

Common Side Effects

Common side effects associated with Implanon use may include: 

• Changes in menstrual periods 
• Light menstrual bleeding or spotting 
• Stomach pain 
• Breast tenderness 
• Acne 

• Weight gain 
• Vaginal itching or discharge 
• Challenges with contact lenses 

Cautions 

Please refrain from using Implanon if you have any of the following conditions: 

• Unusual vaginal bleeding 
• Liver disease or liver cancer 
• A history of breast or uterine cancer, heart attack, stroke, or blood clot 

Do not use Implanon if you are currently pregnant or have given birth recently. 

Note that utilizing an Implanon implant may elevate the risk of blood clots, stroke, or heart attack, particularly if you have certain other conditions or are overweight. 

Be aware that smoking significantly increases the risk of blood clots, stroke, or heart attack. If you are a smoker over 35 years old, Implanon usage is not recommended. 

Prior to receiving the Implanon implant, inform your doctor about the following: 

• Diabetes 
• High blood pressure 
• High cholesterol 
• Gallbladder disease 
• Kidney disease 
• Ovarian cysts 
• History of headaches or depression 
• Being overweight 

• Allergies to numbing medications 

The Implanon implant is inserted into the upper arm’s skin using a needle. The medication is gradually released from the implant, offering continuous contraception for up to 3 years. 

While using the Implanon implant, expect irregular and unpredictable menstrual periods. Inform your doctor if your periods are excessively heavy or prolonged, or if you miss a period (as pregnancy may be a possibility). In case you require surgery, medical tests, or bed rest, your Implanon implant may need to be temporarily removed. Any healthcare provider or surgeon attending to you should be informed of your Implanon implant. 

The Implanon implant must be removed by the conclusion of the third year from insertion. At this point, it may be replaced with a new implant if desired. If you opt not to replace the implant, your fertility will swiftly return. Should you wish to prevent unintended pregnancy, promptly initiate another form of birth control.