What You Should Know About The SUBDERMAL IMPLANT

• Safe
• Effective
• Well tolerated
• Quick return to fertility

What you should know about subdermal implants?

• It is a very effective contraceptive method.
• Subdermal Implants are progesterone- releasing rods that are inserted under the skin on the inner side of the upper arm.

How does Subdermal Implants Work?

• Thickens the cervical mucus (prevents sperm entering into the womb).
• Prevents the release of the egg from ovaries.

How is it Inserted?

• A simple procedure taking only few minutes.
• Insertion is done under local anaesthesia.
• The implants are inserted subdermally to the non dominant arm.

When should it be inserted?

• While having periods - Within first 7 days of the onset of menstruation.
• After child birth - 6 weeks after child birth.
• After abortion - Within the first week of abotion.

What are the advantages?

• Quick reversibility - Once the Implants are removed, the contraceptive effect wears off quickly.
• Convenience - One insertion for long term protection.
• Effective - One of the most effective temporary contraceptive method with a success rate of 99%.
• Long term Contraception - Once an implant has been inserted, it will prevent pregnancy for 5 years. But you can have it removed at any time you want to.

Are there any disadvantages?

• Does not protect against Sexually Transmitted Infections.
• Need a trained person for insertion.
• Affects the menstrual cycle/ pattern after insertion.

Side effects

• Menstrual disturbances (absence of bleeding, prolong cycles, spotting, irregular bleeding)
• Weight gain - due to increased appetite
• Headaches
• Dizziness

Myths about the Implants

1. You cannot use Implants while breast feeding

- NO. there is no harmful effect on the growth or health of infants and on quality and quantity of breast milk.

2. Lack of bleeding due to implants will be harmful

- NO. If you do not have your periods while using implants, it does not harm your health or future fertility. It actually protects you from uterine carcinoma.

3. Implants will cause weight gain

- NO. You may gain weight due to increased appetite. This can be controlled by regular exercise and a healthy diet.

4. Implants will increase the risk of Cancer

- NO. Implants make the uterine lining (lining of the womb) thin. This prevents the over growth of the endometrium and prevents endometrial carcinoma. The implant decreases the stimulation of the ovary which ultimately reduces ovarian carcinoma.

Who are the best candidates for Implants?

Subdermal Implant is a perfect method of contraception for couples who want a long term reversible contraceptive method & teenagers who want to postpone pregnancy.