Norplant System

The Norplant System is not considered appropriate for teens, but you should know about it.

(This product was taken off the market in July 2002.)


What is it?
The Norplant System is a reversible, 5-year, low-dose, progestin-only contraceptive. The Norplant System consists of six very small matchstick-size capsules (made of silastic tubing) that are placed just under the skin of the upper arm.

Will this contraception work for me?
Norplant may be particularly effective for women who can't take estrogen; women who are seeking continuous, long-term contraception but do not want permanent sterilization; and women who have had difficulty with other contraceptive methods.

How effective is it?
The Norplant System is one of the most effective forms of contraception. The average annual pregnancy rate over 5 years is less than 1 percent. Norplant has undergone many years of research and testing. Through 1990, 500,000 women have used this method in 17 countries where the Norplant System is in general use.

How long does the procedure take?
After careful counseling with your health-care provider, you may have the Norplant System placed under the skin of the upper arm through a small incision using local anesthesia. This is an office procedure that usually takes 10 to 15 minutes. It should be done within the first 7 days of your menstrual cycle to ensure that you are not pregnant. As long as the placement of the Norplant System occurs within this time period, you are protected from pregnancy within 24 hours. The IU Health Center requires a Pap smear within 1 year prior to insertion, as well as a recheck 10 days after insertion.

When should I have it removed?
After 5 years (or earlier if you desire), you should return to your health-care provider to have the Norplant System removed. The removal is similar to the insertion and usually takes 40 to 45 minutes, but may occasionally take longer or require two visits. Removal is particularly likely to be difficult if insertion of an implant was deep. After removal, if you wish, you can have a new set of capsules implanted for 5 more years of birth control.

Pros
It's a highly effective method. You don't have to worry about getting pregnant for 5 years. It allows for spontaneous sex.

Cons
It leaves ugly bumps in your arm. Scar tissue can form around implants, making them hard to remove. You need a health-care provider who is trained in the Norplant System to remove them. Many women complain of tenderness in the arm in the area of the implants.

Effectiveness
The failure rate is less than 1 percent.

Most common side effect
The most common side effect is change in the menstrual bleeding pattern. Irregularities range from woman to woman, and may include prolonged menstrual bleeding, spotting between menstrual periods or no bleeding at all. These side effects tend to lessen after 6 to 9 months. Any side effects that may occur with birth-control pills may also occur with Norplant, including depression, nervousness/anxiety, nausea/vomiting, dizziness, hair loss or excessive hair growth, headaches, weight gain, breast tenderness, acne and high blood pressure.

IMPORTANT
Norplant does not provide protection against sexually transmitted diseases. Use latex condoms for increased protection against STDs, including HIV.

Fewer health-care providers are using Norplant since Depo-Provera and Lunelle--which do not have to be 'implanted' into the body--have become more popular.