Contraceptive Implants: How It Works, Side Effects & Benefits

What is a contraceptive implant?

Contraceptive implant is a small thin rod-like device that is put under the skin of your arm. It contains the hormone progestin which can help to prevent pregnancy. 

How does a contraceptive implant work?

The contraceptive implant releases a steady dose of progestin into the bloodstream in your body to prevent ovulation, which is a part of the reproductive cycle when an egg is released from a woman’s ovary. Besides that, it thickens the cervical mucus, which prevents sperms from successfully entering the egg. 

How effective is the contraceptive implant?

This contraceptive implant is one of the most effective methods of contraception other than IUDs. Studies have demonstrated its efficacy to exceed 99% in preventing pregnancy.

How long does it take for a contraceptive implant to start working?

If you get the contraceptive implant during the first 5 days of menstruation, you will be protected against pregnancy straight away without requiring additional contraception. 

If you get the contraceptive implant at another time in your menstrual cycle, you will need an additional contraception, such as condoms for the first 7 days after the contraceptive injection.

Where can I get contraceptive implants?

This contraceptive implant contains prescriptive medication which is only available in family planning clinics, women’s clinics, and some GP clinics.

How much is a contraceptive implant in Singapore?

If you're considering a contraceptive implant in Singapore, here's what you can expect in terms of cost:

1. Implant device: The contraceptive implant itself typically costs between $400 to $500.

2. Doctor’s consultation and insertion Fee: The fee for the doctor's consultation and the insertion procedure usually ranges from $100 to $200, depending on the clinic.

Total cost: 

When you add these costs together, the total expense of getting a contraceptive implant inserted in Singapore generally falls between $500 and $700. This covers both the cost of the implant device and the doctor's fees for the insertion procedure.

It's always a good idea to check with specific clinics for their exact pricing and any additional fees that might apply. Your healthcare provider can also give you more detailed information and help you understand your options.

What are the pros and cons of using contraceptive implants?

Pros

• You do not have to remember to take it daily or during sex

• It provides long-term contraception for 3 years 

• It does not interfere with sexual activity

• It is highly effective 

• It is completely invisible to others

• It is safe for people who cannot use contraceptives containing estrogen

• It may alleviate heavy menstrual bleeding

• You can get pregnant immediately after removing it

Cons

• It does not offer protection against sexually transmitted diseases (STDs)

• You need to visit your healthcare provider regularly for contraceptive injections 

What are the side effects of the contraceptive implant?

When considering a contraceptive implant, it's important to be aware of potential side effects. Here’s what you might experience:

1. Changes in menstrual cycle: 

   • Your periods may become irregular, lighter, heavier, longer, or shorter. These changes are common and usually not a cause for concern.

2. Acne:

   • The implant can sometimes make acne worse, though this varies from person to person.

3. Temporary hormonal side effects: 

   • In the first month of use, you might experience temporary side effects such as breast tenderness, nausea, vomiting, and acne. These symptoms typically improve as your body adjusts to the implant.

4. Skin infection at the implant site: 

   • There is a minor risk of a skin infection where the implant is inserted. This can usually be treated easily if it occurs.

Remember, while these side effects are possible, many women use the implant without experiencing significant issues. It's important to discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider, who can help you weigh the benefits and potential side effects to make the best decision for your contraceptive needs.

How do doctors insert and remove contraceptive implants?

Inserting contraceptive implant

1. Generally, the contraceptive implant will be inserted into your non-dominant arm, but your doctor may ask you which arm you would prefer to insert.

2. You will lie down on the examination table with your arm bent at your elbow like the letter ‘L’.

3. To ensure a pain-free procedure, your doctor will administer a local anesthetic to the skin of your inner arm.

4. The implant is carefully inserted under your skin using a specialised needle-like instrument. 

5. You do not need stitches, but your doctor may place a bandage on top, which aids in minimising bruising.

Removing contraceptive implant 

1. Your doctor will first apply local anesthesia to numb the area, ensuring a pain-free experience. 

2. A small cut is then made to extract the implant using forceps or tweezers. 

3. You do not need stitches, but your doctor may place a bandage on the site, which also helps to reduce bruising.

Both the insertion and removal procedures are quick, and typically last just a few minutes. It is important to remember that these procedures should only be performed by trained healthcare professionals. Attempting to remove the implant yourself can lead to complications and should be avoided.

FAQ

How long does a contraceptive implant last?

The contraceptive implant is effective for up to 3 years. 

Is it painful to insert and remove a contraceptive implant?

Inserting or removing a contraceptive implant may result in slight discomfort at the site of the procedure, but it is generally not painful.

When can I start using a contraceptive implant after giving birth?

You can start using the contraceptive implant any time after giving birth. 

If you start using the implant on or before day 21 of giving birth, you will be immediately protected against becoming pregnant. 

If you start using the implant after day 21 of giving birth, you will need an additional contraception, such as condoms for the first 7 days after the implant insertion. 

When can I start using contraceptive implants after miscarriage or abortion?

You can have a contraceptive implant inserted straight after miscarriage or abortion and will be protected against becoming pregnant immediately. 

If you have the implant inserted more than 5 days after miscarriage or abortion, you will need additional contraception, such as condoms for the first 7 days after the implant insertion.

Who is not suitable for contraceptive implants?

Contraceptive implants may not be suitable for everyone. Certain individuals should either avoid it or use it with caution under medical guidance. These include people who have:

• Unexplained vaginal bleeding 

• Liver disease 

• Breast cancer 

• Taking certain medications such as medications for HIV, and epilepsy, complementary remedies for St. John’s Wort, and some antibiotics like rifampicin

Does contraceptive implant protect against STDs?

This contraceptive implant does not protect you against sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). To help protect yourself from STDs, use a male and/or female condom each time you and your partner have sex. 

Is the implant better than birth control pills?

Both the implant and birth control pills contain synthetic progesterone and are effective at preventing pregnancy. However, the implant tends to be more effective than birth control pills for a few reasons:

1. Consistency: 

   • With the implant, you don't need to remember to take a daily pill. Once the implant is placed under your skin by a doctor, it works continuously to prevent pregnancy for up to three years.

2. Effectiveness: 

   • The implant has a higher effectiveness rate because it eliminates the risk of user error. Birth control pills must be taken at the same time every day to maintain their effectiveness, which can be challenging for some women.

3. Convenience: 

   • The implant provides long-term protection without the need for daily action. This can be a significant advantage if you have a busy lifestyle or find it difficult to remember to take a pill every day.

Both methods have their own pros and cons, and what works best for you depends on your lifestyle and preferences. It's important to discuss with your gynaecologist to determine the best contraceptive method for your needs.