Implants

This is a tiny flexible tube impregnated with the hormone progestogen which is inserted just under the surface of the skin on the inside of your upper arm. This is done under a local anaesthetic. Implants have to be put in by a trained doctor or nurse. The hormone is released in tiny doses over a 3 year period, after which, it is taken out and a new one inserted. Removal can sometimes be awkward.

The method works in the same way as the progestogen-only Pill (mini-Pill, POP) by thickening the mucus in the neck of the womb to make it difficult for sperm to enter. It also changes the lining of the womb so that it will not accept a fertilised egg. In some women, it will also prevent ovulation.

There can be temporary side effects such as headaches, mood changes and breast tenderness, but usually these subside after the first few months. Some women may put on weight and some find that their periods become less regular after the first year

How effective are implants compared to other methods