What it is used for
- Long-term contraception
How it works
A small flexible rod placed under the skin of the upper arm that slowly releases a progestogen hormone. It stops the ovaries releasing an egg and thickens cervical mucus.
How it is taken
Inserted just under the skin of the upper arm by a trained clinician using local anaesthetic, and removed the same way. It works for several years. Follow your clinician's advice on when it must be replaced or removed.
No doses here on purpose. The right strength and schedule depend on you — only a doctor or pharmacist should set them. Always follow your prescription and the label.
Common side effects
- Irregular bleeding or spotting
- Periods stopping
- Headache
- Acne
- Breast tenderness
- Mood changes
- Bruising or tenderness at the insertion site early on
Serious effects — get help
- Signs of infection at the insertion site (increasing redness, swelling, or pus)
- Severe lower abdominal pain (possible ectopic pregnancy)
- Signs of a serious allergic reaction
- Implant that cannot be felt and may have moved
If a reaction is severe — for example trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or collapse — go to the nearest emergency room now or call your local emergency number. Do not wait for an online consultation.
Interactions to watch
- Some epilepsy medicines
- Certain HIV and hepatitis C medicines
- TB antibiotics (rifampicin-type)
- St John's Wort can reduce its reliability
Who should take care
- Tell your clinician about any history of breast cancer, liver disease, or unexplained vaginal bleeding
- You should be able to feel the implant under your skin; seek advice if you cannot
- Bleeding patterns are unpredictable and may not settle
- Does not protect against STIs