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Implants prevent pregnancy through the following ways:
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Stops ovulation in about half of the menstrual cycles.
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Thicken cervical mucus, and making it difficult for sperm to pass.
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Inhibit the movement of fallopian tube cilia, which decreases sperm movement.
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Change the endometrium which decreases the possibility of egg implantation.
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When does a woman start the implants?
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If a woman recently delivered and is breastfeeding exclusively (using LAM), implants can be inserted six months after delivery; if the woman is partially breast feeding, insertion should be six weeks after childbirth.
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If amenorrhoeic or certain she is not pregnant, implants can be inserted at any time (taking into consideration use of a back up method during the next 2 days).
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If having menses, implants should be inserted within the first seven days of menses.
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If a woman wants to switch methods, implants can be inserted any time as long as she is certain she is not pregnant.
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If after a miscarriage or childbirth but is not breastfeeding at all, implants should be inserted within 7 days.
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Where and how are implants inserted?
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Implants are inserted under the skin of the inner side of the upper arm through a minor surgical procedure, by a trained service provider (physicians, nurse or midwife). A local anesthetic is injected and the service provider makes a small incision—2 mm long. The capsules are placed one at a time in a fan shape using a special hollow needle called a trocar. There is no need for stitches to close the incision; an adhesive bandage is used. The incision should be kept clean and away from water for around 2-3 days until it heals.
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How are the implants removed?
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The implants should be removed by a trained health care provider, s/he gives local anesthesia in the insertion area, makes a small incision underneath the implants, and pulls the implants out one by one using a special type of small clamp.
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Are there any side effects associated with implants use?
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Implants can cause minor side effects that women can usually tolerate, especially during the first 2-3 months from insertion. They include changes in menstrual bleeding (spotting or bleeding in between periods, amenorrhea (missed periods), irregular cycles), headache, breast tenderness, dizziness, nausea, mood changes, changes in sexual desire, hair loss or more hair growth on the face. However, if a woman experiences any of the following warning signs, she should seek immediate health care:
- Severe pain, heat or tenderness, pus or apses on the insertion place.
- Severe abdominal pain.
- Severe headache, dizziness, weakness, or numbness.
- Vision disturbance.
- Skin or eyes become unusually yellow (Jaundice).
- Heavy vaginal bleeding.
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Can the implants be seen by looking at the arm?
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No, the implants cannot be seen as they are hidden under the skin, but you can feel them by touching the location of insertion.
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