Contraceptive implant
Pregnancy prevention for 3 to 5 years, remove at any time
An effective long-acting, reversible contraceptive.
The contraceptive implant is a small, plastic rod (or sometimes 2 rods) that is put into the upper arm, preventing pregnancy for 3 to 5 years.
It’s a long-term method of contraception. These methods all have the advantage that, once in place, you don’t need to think about them until they need replacing and none of them interrupt sex.
Long-term methods have also been shown to be 20 times more effective than short-term contraceptive methods such as the pill.
Effectiveness
Over 99%. If one hundred women used the implant for a year, then 99 women would not fall pregnant during that time.
Availability
Implants are available from all of our clinics and outreach teams.
Speak to us about implants
Call 0800 753 333 or email us to book your appointment.
Implant advantages
Implants offer lots of advantages as a long-acting, reversible method of contraception.
- Easily inserted by a trained MSI Tanzania provider
- It can last up to 5 years
- Can be easily removed
- Fertility returns rapidly after it is removed
- Does not interrupt sex.
These benefits come from the correct use of a contraceptive implant when inserted by a trained provider. If using an implant, you should also make sure to follow any product manufacturer instructions.
Things to consider about implants
Trying to decide if an implant is right for you? Here are a few things to consider:
- The implant is inserted like an injection.
- Irregular bleeding can occur, but this can often be managed with medication to help it settle down.
- Periods may stop, but this is nothing to worry about.
- It requires a simple procedure to remove it.
How an implant works
The contraceptive implant works by slowly releasing a hormone (progestin) in your blood, which stops your body releasing an egg each month. The hormone also makes it harder for the man’s sperm to reach the womb.
Inserting the implant is a simple procedure that takes about five minutes.
A trained MSI provider will insert the implant into the inside of your upper arm. Your arm is numbed beforehand so it is generally not painful.
Once inserted, the implant stays in place and does not move around your body. However, you will be able to feel it under the skin.
Depending on when you get the implant inserted, it can take up to seven days to start working. You should use a condom during this time to protect against unwanted pregnancy.
The implant stops working when it is taken out, at which point your fertility returns to normal.
Take the contraception quiz
Our online contraception counsellor will help you understand the best contraception methods for you based on your lifestyle, preferences and medical circumstances.
- Personalised advice in a few minutes
- Tailored pros and cons for each method
- Ability to compare different methods
Interested in getting an implant? Contact us for a consultation.
0800 753 333
Find a clinic near you.
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