Contraception Implant
You can have an implant fitted at any time in your menstrual cycle if it is certain that you are not pregnant.
If the implant is put in during the first five days of your period you will be protected against pregnancy immediately.
If the implant is put in on any other day you will not be protected against pregnancy for the first seven days after it has been fitted. So you will need to use an additional method of contraception, such as condoms, during this time.
Do I need to be seen again after the contraceptive implant is inserted?
You do not need to be routinely seen by your doctor or nurse after having your implant inserted. However, you can return at any time to discuss any problems. You should see your doctor or nurse if any of the following occur:
- You cannot feel your implant.
- Your implant appears to have changed shape.
- You notice any change in your skin or have any pain in the area around the implant.
- You develop irregular bleeding or bleeding after intercourse.
When is the contraceptive implant taken out?
A replacement is needed every three years if you wish to continue with this form of contraception. It requires a small operation under local anaesthetic to remove the old device and put in a new one.The implant can be taken out at any time if you request removal. It loses its effect immediately after being removed. So, if you do not want to become pregnant, you must use another form of contraception immediately afterwards.
There is no delay in your fertility returning after the implant is removed.
It is important to have your implant changed at the right time. If it is not you will not be protected against pregnancy. If you have sex without using another method of contraception and don’t wish to become pregnant you may want to consider using emergency contraception.
Do other medicines interfere with the contraceptive implant?
Some prescribed medicines may interfere with the progestogen (mainly some used for epilepsy and tuberculosis). Tell the doctor or pharmacist that you have a progestogen implant if you are prescribed another medicine.
St John's wort
Unfortunately taking St John's wort decreases the effectiveness of hormonal contraceptives, including nexplanon. This could result in an unplanned pregnancy, so women using hormonal contraceptives to prevent pregnancy should not take St John's wort.
Remove your dressing 7 days after the insertion of the implant.