The implant is a type of long acting reversible contraception (LARC), made up of two small rods the size of a matchstick.

The rods are put under the skin in the inside of your arm.

They slowly release a hormone called progestogen.

They work for up to 3 to five years, and you can have them taken out whenever you want.


WHAT IT DOES..

Implants can stop your body from releasing an egg each month. They also thicken the mucus in your cervix so sperm cannot get to an egg.


AFTER THE INSERTION.

You will be able to feel the implant under your skin.

Your period might change. You might bleed very often or not often at all, or have light but persistent bleeding. Or you could have a normal period or no period at all.

This is all safe for your body.

If your bleeding becomes a problem, there are pills you can take that will help.


ADVANTAGES

1. It's Long acting – it lasts for up to five years.

2. It's Reversible – you can choose to have it taken out at any time. After that, you will be able to get pregnant again.

3. It's 99% effective – it works very well
You don’t need to think about contraception every day.

DISADVANTAGES

1. You might have irregular periods or periods that last longer. This is quite common in the first 6 months but it can last as long as you use the implant. This can be annoying, but it’s not harmful and the implant will still work. If the bleeding is a problem, you can get pills to help.

2. You might have a sore or bruised arm after the implant is put in or taken out. There is a small risk of infection.

IMPLANT and STIs

Implant doesn't protect you from sexually transmitted illness.
You need to use condoms and lubricant to protect yourself from sexually transmissible infections (STIs).

If there is a chance you may have an STI, have a check-up.

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