Implant

There is nothing to think about in the moment and it’s hidden from everyone

The implant is tiny rod that is about the same size of a match stick. It is inserted under the skin of your upper arm and provides up to 3 years of pregnancy protection. The implant releases the hormone progestin to prevent your ovaries from releasing eggs and thicken your cervical mucus to keep sperm from getting to an egg.

Pros

Doesn’t interrupt the heat of the moment
Total privacy – no one will know unless you tell them
May get fewer, lighter periods, or even no periods
You don’t have to worry about remembering to take it every day
Can be used while breastfeeding
Can be used if you can’t take estrogen
May improve PMS, depression and symptoms from endometriosis
Can be used with other barrier control methods

Cons

Doesn’t protect against STIs, including HIV
Can cause some discomfort when inserting
Irregular or unpredictable periods

How to Use

To get an implant, you will talk to your healthcare provider to see if the implant is right for you. You will also receive an exam and take a pregnancy test before getting it inserted. Your healthcare provider will numb a small area on your upper arm to insert the implant under your skin. It takes less than 5 minutes! Once it is time to remove the implant, your healthcare provider will numb your arm again to make a tiny cut for removing the implant. If you’re interested in continuing to use the implant, another one can be inserted at the same time.

Effort

The implant is hands free, all you have to do is get it inserted by your healthcare provider!

Effectiveness

The implant is one of the most effective forms of birth control. It is 99% effective. If you get the implant during the first five day of your period, you don’t have to worry about using a backup method. If you’re outside the first five days of your period, you’ll need to use a backup method for the following week, such as barrier methods.

Side Effects

The most common side effect with the implant is irregular or unpredictable periods for the first 6-12 months. This could mean spotting in between periods or having longer, heavier periods. Some have irregular bleeding the whole time it is in. Others don’t get any periods, at least for a while. It can take some time for your body to adjust to new hormones. If you are still uncomfortable after 6 months, talk to your healthcare provider about switching methods.

Pregnancy

You can become pregnant very quickly after you have the implant removed. If you’re not ready to become pregnant right after getting the implant removed, use another method right away.