As of 2010, Implanon is the only contraceptive implant available in the United States that has the approval of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Although it is one of the most effective methods available to prevent unplanned pregnancies, Implanon is not for everyone. Women interested in this choice of birth control should talk to a doctor about the advantages and disadvantages of using this medication.
Function
Implanon works to prevent pregnancy by releasing a steady dose of the hormone progestin into the woman's body. This not only thickens cervical mucus so it can act as a barrier to sperm, but it also thins out the uterus's lining to prevent implantation of a fertilized egg. It also usually prevents ovulation completely, so no egg is released at all. Although Implanon is effective at preventing pregnancy, it does not protect against sexually transmitted diseases.
Time Frame
Implanon prevents pregnancy for up to three years after insertion. If a woman does not get a new implant at the three-year mark, her hormones might begin to return to normal, and she will no longer be protected against pregnancy.
Effectiveness
Implanon is one of the most effective birth control methods available, with a less than 1 percent failure rate. However, Planned Parenthood warns that certain things might interfere with the effectiveness of Implanon, including the antibiotic rifampin, certain oral yeast infection medications, certain HIV medications, certain anti-seizure medications and St. John's Wort. Implanon's website also notes that it has not yet been determined if the medication is as effective for overweight women, as few overweight women were tested during clinical trials.
Side Effects
The most common side effect is irregular bleeding, according to Planned Parenthood. This irregular bleeding might mean that periods become fewer and lighter or longer and heavier. It also might mean there is a greater chance for bleeding or spotting between periods or that menstrual bleeding will stop completely. Other side effects of Implanon can include a change in libido, headaches, nausea, sore breasts, pain at the insertion site and discoloring or scarring of the skin over the implant. Irregular bleeding is the most common side effect, especially in the first six to 12 months of use.
Although serious side effects are rare, they do happen. These serious side effects can include unusually heavy or prolonged vaginal bleeding, breast lumps or bleeding, pus, pain or redness at the insertion site. Women experiencing any of these side effects should contact a doctor immediately. Also, women concerned about the location of the implant or those who experience the implant coming out completely should also contact a doctor as soon as possible.
Considerations
Although Implanon is effective, it is not without risks. Complications involving insertion and removal can occur, the chance of an ectopic pregnancy is increased and Implanon might interact negatively with certain medications.
In addition, Implanon's website states it is unknown if the medication increases the risk of breast cancer and blood clots, so women with a history of these conditions might want to consider other birth control options. Women who have a history of liver disease, unexplained vaginal bleeding or have known allergies to the medication in Implanon should avoid using this medication. In addition, women who have diabetes, high cholesterol, seizures, epilepsy, depression, gallbladder or kidney disease, high blood pressure or are allergic to anesthetics or antiseptics might be at greater risk for complications and should talk to a doctor to determine whether this medication is right for them.
