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Contraceptive implants

The implant (currently Nexplanon) is a highly reliable, low maintenance, long acting contraceptive that can be left in place for up to three years.

It is simply injected under the skin of the inner upper arm under local anaesthetic and slowly releases progestogen into the body to provide its contraceptive effect.

Contraception is immediate if it is fitted within the first five days of a period, but there is some delay if it is fitted at other times of the menstrual cycle.

There is usually a rapid return to fertility once it is removed, with the greatest delay being reported of one month. It is removed by making a small cut in the skin and pushing the rod out from behind.