Rectory Meadow Surgery

PARTNERS
	
DR. ANDREW SAPSFORD
DR. VIVIEN CARTER
DR. MUIR FERGUSON
DR. STEPHANE WATTEEUX
DR. CHRISTINE CHAN

PATIENT INFORMATION LEAFLET

Insertion of Contraceptive Implant

The contraceptive implant is called Nexplanon (etonogestrel).  Dr Chan performs contraceptive Implant fitting at the surgery.  Leaflets about process are available from your GP or the practice nurses and are also available on our website on the Practice Nurses page.

Deciding to have an Implant Fitted

Please make an appointment to see your GP to discuss whether this is a contraceptive that would suit you.  If, after discussion, you decide you would like the implant you will need to make a double appointment with both Dr Chan and the practice nurse or healthcare assistant who will be assisting her. 

When to have a Contraceptive Implant Fitted

It is a good idea to book your appointments well in advance if possible as it is important to book your fitting according to your monthly cycle.  Unless you are changing from another hormonal contraception, Nexplanon should be inserted between days one to five of your period. This will prevent pregnancy from the time the implant is inserted.  If you have had a baby and are breastfeeding, the implanted should be inserted after the fourth week from giving birth, if you are not breastfeeding, the implant should be inserted 21 – 28 days after the birth. You will be protected from pregnancy from the day the implant is inserted.

Fitting the Implant

The implant is a small flexible, plastic implant that is inserted under the skin of the upper arm.  It is about the size of a hair clip. (4cm long, 2mm diameter). The upper arm area is numbed by a local anaesthetic. The anaesthetic follows the line where the implant is to be loaded.  The implant is in a loading device which allows the implant to be inserted under the skin quite swiftly. Once the implant is inserted Dr Chan will close the small hole which is made in your skin with simple steristrips.  She will then show you how to feel the implant. Your arm will then be bandaged. The procedure only takes 10 minutes or so.

After your Implant Fitting

Once the anaesthetic has worn off, your arm may feel a bit sore or tender.  You may also experience some bruising and slight swelling.  Keep the bandage on for a few days to keep the small wound clean and dry. 

Nexplanon will provide contraception for three years if left in place. If, however you would like it removed you would no longer be protected against pregnancy and your normal cycle should resume rapidly.  If after three years you would like another implant, a new one would be inserted at the same time as removing the existing one.