Contraceptive implant
About the implant Contraceptive implant
About: The contraceptive implant is small 4cm flexible rod, which is inserted into the upper arm. It is not usually visible and is estimated to be 99.9% effective.
How it works: By releasing a hormone called progestogen, it prevents the ovaries from releasing an egg each month (ovulation).
How to use it: It is inserted by a health professional and then lasts for three years.
Who can use it: Most women but there are exceptions - this includes if you think you might be pregnant or have certain health conditions.
Advantages: Lots - including that it lasts for three years, is very convenient and effective (99.9%), is safe with breastfeeding and may reduce heavy or painful periods.
Disadvantages: Requires a small procedure to fit and remove, and you will be able to feel it in your arm. A common side effect is that periods may stop, be irregular or last longer. If you do have any bleeding problems medication or additional hormones can help control it.
Fitting the contraceptive implant: Please see the NHS information video providing some useful information about having an implant fitted.
Removing the contraceptive implant: Please see the NHS video below showing more information about removing the contraceptive implant.
Where to get it: Most types of contraception are free in the UK and available through the NHS including most GP surgeries, sexual health clinics and some young people’s services.
Following the fitting of your implant if you have any concerns or worries please contact sexual health Wirral for advice
If you think the implant is the right contraception choice, you can:
- make an appointment online to come into one of our clinics to have your implant fitted
- visit any of our walk-in and wait clinics.
If you need to bring your child/children with you to your appointment, we recommend you bring another adult with you to care for them.
*Our walk-in and wait clinics offer limited slots and operate on a first come first served basis. When clinics are at full capacity, patients asking to be seen will be triaged and those who fit our urgent criteria will be a priority. At busy times we may need to signpost non-urgent cases to other clinics or recommend patients make an appointment for an alternative day or suggest a return visit.
Following the fitting of your implant if you have any concerns or worries please contact sexual health Wirral for advice
More information
Visit NHS Choices - Contraceptive implant