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The contraceptive implant is one of the most innovative and innovative methods of contraception. It is enough to insert the implant under the skin to protect against pregnancy for up to 5 years. The action of the contraceptive implant is based on a progestogen, which makes it more widely applicable. The contraceptive implant does not contain estrogen. What does a contraceptive implant look like? How much does it cost and where can it be worn?
Contraceptive implant is a long-lasting and reversible method of contraception in the form of a small, flexible rod, 4 cm long and 2 mm wide.
The match-like one Dental Implantology it is injected under the skin, from where it releases only progestogen, i.e. synthetic progesterone (a hormone that dominates the second half of the cycle), effectively preventing pregnancy.
Find out more about how progestins and birth control injections work. Read: Contraceptive injections – advantages, disadvantages, indications and side effects
Contraceptive implant – action
The effect of this type of contraception lasts from 6 months to 5 years. During this time, small doses of the progestogen are released, which through the surrounding tissues penetrates directly into the blood and then into the entire body. Implantunlike tablets, it does not release estrogen, which is the most common cause of side effects.
The doses of progestogen prevent ovulation, inhibit the cyclical maturation of the endometrium and thicken the mucus that prevents the sperm from reaching the egg. According to doctors, a contraceptive implant is much safer than a pill.
Read more on the ovum. Check out the article: Ovum – structure and functions
The subcutaneous implant procedure consists in placing it directly under the skin in the upper inner part of the arm. The implant must be positioned so that during the procedure the nerves and blood vessels located deep in the connective tissue between the triceps and biceps are bypassed.
The position of the implant should be palpated under the skin immediately after insertion. If it is not perceptible or its presence raises doubts, another form of checking should be used. At a time when we are not sure whether the implant works and fulfills its role well, it is necessary to use alternative forms of contraception. Usually, the implant works to its full effect one week after insertion.
The implant in right-handed patients is placed in the left hand, while in left-handed patients – in the right. The whole procedure is similar to receiving an injection, which is performed under local anesthesia. The implant placement should take place within the first five days of the cycle, preferably during the first day of menstruation.
Read more on: Menstruation – definition, pain, heavy periods, PMS
Advantages of the contraceptive implant
Undoubtedly, one of the advantages of a contraceptive implant is its duration of action. The contraceptive implant is currently one of the most reliable methods of contraception. Unlike birth control pills, the implant does not release estrogen, which is responsible for most of the side effects of using hormonal contraception. Its form allows it to be considered one of the safest measures for women to protect against unwanted pregnancy.
The long-term effect of the contraceptive implant not only maintains a constant level of progesterone. This form of contraception ensures comfort and discretion and relieves you from the regular use of contraceptive pills. The operation of the contraceptive implant is not affected by diseases related to the digestive system, such as diarrhea or vomiting.
The key advantage of using a contraceptive implant is effectiveness. According to the Pearl index, which determines the effectiveness of various methods of contraception, the data on the implant is 0,01, which means that it protects against pregnancy in 99%.
Find out more about other forms of contraception and read: The morning after pill – how does it work and when to use it?
Disadvantages of the contraceptive implant
Contraceptive implant it also has disadvantages. It should be remembered that using it does not exempt a woman from using other forms of protection against serious diseases, such as HIV or AIDS, with the use of a condom, unless the woman has sex with one partner. The implant, like other drugs of this type, protects contraceptives, but does not prevent disease infections, which many women who use it seem to forget.
The implantation of a contraceptive implant has a negative impact on the regularity of the menstrual cycle. Its action can lead to irregular periods, in the worst case to no bleeding at all.
Other side effects associated with the implantation of a contraceptive implant may include ailments such as: acne, decreased libido, nausea, weight gain, headaches and abdominal pain, mood swings and vaginal discomfort (vaginitis or vaginal discharge). These ailments appear very rarely and affect only a few percent of women.
Check out more information on: Libido – disorders, lowering, elevating, ways to stimulate
The World Health Organization (WHO) has expanded the indications for use the implantas skin absorption and maintaining a constant, even progesterone level significantly reduces side effects.
Contraceptive implant is especially recommended for women who cannot take birth control pills for various reasons, e.g. because of high blood pressure, diabetes, the risk of cancer or thromboembolism (although in this case additional medical supervision is necessary), as well as smoking or age (above 35 years of age).
The implantation of the rod can also be decided by women who, due to their high body weight (over 90 kg) or being very overweight, cannot use the contraceptive patch. Implant it is also a solution for women who breastfeed, because the progestogen it releases has no effect on breast milk. Implant may be implanted 4 weeks after delivery in women who are breastfeeding or between 21 and 28 days after delivery in women who are not breastfeeding. Therefore, it has a very good reputation among women.
Are you a nursing woman? Read the article: Contraception and breastfeeding
The use of the subcutaneous contraceptive implant is not recommended for women who are suffering from thromboembolism, liver disease, phlebitis, breast cancer or hyperandrogenization syndrome.
Implantation is also not possible in women under 18 years of age. In addition, the implant is not recommended in the case of hypersensitivity to any of its ingredients. Pregnant women must also give up this type of surgery.
What is hyperandrogenism associated with? Read the article: Hyperandrogenism
The cost of implantation of a contraceptive implant is from 1000 to 1200 PLN. The amount may be a deterrent to some women, but compared to the cost of three years of taking birth control pills, the amount is comparable.
The costs of implantation of contraceptive implants depend on the place of the procedure.
Use of a contraceptive implant and weight gain
The decision to use this form of contraception can lead to weight gain. On the one hand, weight gain is caused by the administered hormones, on the other hand, an increase in appetite. In order to determine the reason for the arrival of extra pounds, it is worth performing specialized hormonal tests or using the help of a dietitian.
What hormonal tests should every woman perform? Read: Hormone Tests in Women
Removal of the contraceptive implant
The contraceptive implant is usually removed 3 to 5 years after insertion. Why? Because that’s when the release of the progestogen ends – that is, the implant loses its effectiveness. During the implant removal procedure, a new one can be applied immediately. Getting rid of the contraceptive implant does not adversely affect a woman’s fertility. After the contraceptive implant is removed, it is possible to get pregnant during the next cycle.
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