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It works for 3 years before it needs to be replaced. You can use the contraceptive implant until you reach the menopause.
The implant can be removed at any time by a doctor or nurse. It only takes a few minutes to remove and local anaesthetic will be used. Your doctor or nurse will make a small cut in your skin to pull the implant out.
Once your contraceptive implant has been removed, you’ll no longer be protected against pregnancy.
Your implant is usually removed by the service or practice where it was fitted. If this is not the case, your GP or sexual health service can tell you where implant removal is provided in your area.
Who can use the implant?
Most women can use the contraceptive implant, however it might not be suitable for some people. Your doctor or nurse will talk about this with you.
You should not use the implant if you:
do not want your periods to change
take other medicines that may affect the implant
have unexplained bleeding in between periods or after sex
have severe liver disease
have breast cancer or have had it in the past
have a medical condition that may affect which contraception you can use – talk to your doctor or nurse about this
What if I’m taking other medicines?
Some medicines can stop the implant from working.
These include:
medication for HIV
medication for epilepsy
complementary remedies, such as St John’s Wort
some antibiotics, such as rifabutin or rifampicin
If you’re taking any of these medicines, you’ll need additional contraception. You may wish to change your form of contraception to one that isn’t affected by your medication.
Always tell your doctor that you’re using an implant if you’re prescribed any medicine.
Side effects of the contraceptive implant
The contraceptive implant may cause side effects. You should consider these carefully before deciding if it’s right for you.
Disrupted periods
Your periods may change significantly while using a contraceptive implant. Around 20% of people using the implant will have no bleeding, but almost 50% will have infrequent or prolonged bleeding. Bleeding patterns often remain irregular.
If the bleeding is a problem speak to your GP, nurse or sexual health service for advice.
Other side effects
Other side effects that some people report are:
headaches
acne
feeling sick (nausea)
breast tenderness
mood changes
These side effects usually stop after the first few months. If you have prolonged or severe headaches or other side effects, tell your doctor.
Benefits of using the implant
Some benefits of the contraceptive implant are that:
it works for 3 years
it does not interrupt sex
the implant is an option if you can’t use contraception containing oestrogen such as the combined pill, contraceptive patch or vaginal ring
you don’t have to remember to take a pill every day
it’s safe to use while you are breastfeeding
your fertility should return to normal as soon as the implant is removed
after the contraceptive implant has been inserted, you should be able to carry out normal activities
Risks of the implant
Sometimes the area of skin where the implant has been fitted can become infected. If this happens, the area will be cleaned and may be treated with antibiotics.