Contraceptive implant
The contraceptive implant (Nexplanon) is a small flexible plastic rod.
If implanted correctly, it’s more than 99% effective. Fewer than 1 in 1,000 people who use the implant as contraception for 3 years will get pregnant ucrm.
It’s placed under the skin of your upper arm by a doctor or nurse to prevent pregnancy. It does not protect you against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
Contraceptive implant
How the implant works
The implant prevents pregnancy by releasing progestogen which:
prevents you from releasing an egg (ovulating)
makes it difficult for sperm to get to an egg
thins the womb lining, so there’s less chance an egg will attach to it
When it starts to work
You can have the implant put in at any time during your menstrual cycle, as long as you’re not pregnant.
If it’s put in during the first 5 days of your cycle, you’ll be protected against pregnancy.
If it’s put in on any other day of your menstrual cycle, you should use additional contraception such as condoms for 7 days.
After giving birth
You can have the contraceptive implant fitted any time after you’ve given birth.
If it’s fitted on or before day 21 after the birth, you’ll be protected against pregnancy.
If it’s fitted after day 21, you’ll need to use additional contraception such as condoms for 7 days.
It’s safe to use the implant while you are breastfeeding.
After a miscarriage or abortion
The implant can be fitted immediately after a miscarriage or an abortion. You’ll be protected against pregnancy straight away.
How is the contraceptive implant fitted or removed?
Local anaesthetic is used to numb the area on the inside of your upper arm.
The implant is inserted under your skin. It only takes a few minutes to put in and feels like you’re having an injection. You don’t need stitches after having your implant fitted.
It works for 3 years before it needs to be replaced. You can use the contraceptive implant until you reach the menopause.
The implant can be removed at any time by a doctor or nurse. It only takes a few minutes to remove and local anaesthetic will be used. Your doctor or nurse will make a small cut in your skin to pull the implant out.
Once your contraceptive implant has been removed, you’ll no longer be protected against pregnancy.
Your implant is usually removed by the service or practice where it was fitted. If this is not the case, your GP or sexual health service can tell you where implant removal is provided in your area.
