Physicians implant the long-term birth control Implanon (etonogestrel) in women for up to three years as a contraceptive method. The hormone etonogestrel contained in the small, matchstick-sized plastic rod releases slowly to stop ovulation and make the uterine lining less likely to allow a fertilized egg to attach and grow to a fetus. A doctor can place the device under the skin of the upper arm. It can also be replaced for continued contraception after three years, or can removed at any time to reverse the contraceptive action. The implant can cause a variety of side effects that may make the long-term convenience of the device less appealing.
Irregular Periods
Implanon patients will tend to experience irregular menstrual periods and bleeding. RxList.com states that bleeding irregularities constituted the most common reason for discontinuing the device (11 percent) and that bleeding irregularities were unpredictable. The site warns physicians to counsel their patients on the likelihood of abnormal bleeding and to track bleeding in case it indicates other maladies or a pregnancy.
Ectopic Pregnancy
Implanon patients who become pregnant while using the implant may begin to form a fetus outside the womb. Mayo Clinic staff state that such an "ectopic pregnancy" can cause serious internal bleeding. A physician should remove the implant immediately and follow up with further medical treatment as needed.
Circulatory Problems
Implanon can trigger blood clots, stroke or heart attack in patients. Drugs.com warns that if you have a history of heart disease you should not use the implant. You should also not use the implant if you have had abnormal vaginal bleeding in the past. Circulatory problems are more likely for women more than 35 years in age, as well as those who smoke.
Headaches, Dizziness, Infections
During clinical trials, Implanon users reported a sizable number of headaches, dizziness and upper respiratory infections. RxList.com shows that nearly 25 percent of trial subjects experienced headaches, nearly 13 percent developed respiratory infections and 7 percent became dizzy when using the implant.
Various Pains
Implanon users reported a variety of pain when using the implant in clinical trials. RxList.com says breast pain affects nearly 13 percent of users, abdominal pain nearly 11 percent, and back pain nearly 7 percent. Five percent had generalized pain and 5 percent reported insertion site pain from the implant.
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