When is it safe to have sex?
If you get the implant on the first day of your period you are protected immediately. However, if the implant is fitted later in your period you should wait for 7 days to be absolutely sure that you are covered for contraception.
How long does it work for?
The implant is effective for contraception for 3 years. If you are very overweight it may not be effective for the full 3 years. Your doctor may suggest that the implant is changed after 2 years, or that you consider an alternative form of contraception.
What can reduce the effectiveness of the implant?
Because the implant causes a slow release of progestogen into your system, there is very little that can interfere with it. Unlike oral contraceptives an upset stomach will not affect the action of the implant. However, women who are on some types of antiepileptic medication may not have good contraceptive cover and should consider other forms of contraception.
Do I need check-ups?
A check up is not necessary but if you are concerned about changes in bleeding pattern or any side effects such as prolonged headaches or breast tenderness please come back for review.
What about removal?
Removing the implant should be a fairly straightforward procedure provided the implant can be felt under the skin. A local anaesthetic is used to numb the area and a small incision is made at one end of the rod so that the rod can be removed. After removal either paper stitches or a dissolvable suture is used to close the wound. Some bruising is normal. In a small minority of patients where the device is not easily felt the implant may need to be removed using ultrasound imaging.
Will it leave a scar?
You will have a very small scar that fades with time.
References:
http://www.netdoctor.co.uk/conditions/sexual-health/a2312/contraceptive-implants/
http://www.medicines.ie/medicine/14810/SPC/Implanon
https://www.implanon-usa.com/en/consumer/index.xhtml
http://wellwomancentre.ie/sub-topics/implants-and-injectable-contraception/
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