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What Is the Contraceptive Implant?
The contraceptive implant (commonly known as Nexplanon) is a small, flexible rod inserted under the skin of the upper arm that provides long-acting, reversible contraception for up to three years.
It releases a steady dose of progestogen to prevent pregnancy and is one of the most effective forms of contraception available in the UK.
For many women, it offers a low-maintenance alternative to the pill, injection, or coil, especially for those who want reliable contraception without daily effort.
How Does the Implant Work?
The implant works through three key mechanisms:
- Suppressing ovulation (preventing egg release)
- Thickening cervical mucus to block sperm
- Thinning the endometrial lining
Because it does not rely on daily use, the implant is over 99% effective, making it more reliable than the contraceptive pill in real-life use.
This is why it is classified as a Long-Acting Reversible Contraception (LARC) method by UK clinical guidelines.
Who Is the Contraceptive Implant Suitable For?
The implant is particularly suitable for women who:
- Want long-acting contraception (up to 3 years)
- Forget to take the pill
- Prefer hormone-only (oestrogen-free) contraception
- Have migraines with aura
- Are breastfeeding or postpartum
- Want discreet contraception
- Have busy lifestyles and want a “fit and forget” method
In clinical practice, many professional women choose the implant because it removes the mental load of daily contraception decisions.
Contraceptive Implant Fitting: What to Expect
The implant fitting procedure is quick, safe, and performed under local anaesthetic in a clinic setting.
Step-by-Step Implant Insertion
- The upper arm is cleaned and numbed with local anaesthetic
- The implant is inserted just under the skin using a sterile applicator
- A small dressing and pressure bandage are applied
The entire procedure usually takes 10–15 minutes.
Most patients describe the experience as mildly uncomfortable rather than painful.
How Effective Is the Contraceptive Implant?
The contraceptive implant is more than 99% effective at preventing pregnancy, making it one of the most reliable contraception methods available.
Unlike the pill:
- There is no risk of missed doses
- No daily reminders
- No user error affecting effectiveness
Once inserted correctly, it works continuously for up to three years.
Contraceptive Implant Side Effects: What Are the Most Common?
The most common side effect is a change in bleeding patterns.
You may experience:
- Irregular periods
- Lighter periods
- Spotting
- No periods (amenorrhoea)
Other possible side effects include:
- Headaches
- Acne
- Mood changes
- Breast tenderness
- Bloating
It is important to note that side effects vary significantly between individuals, and many women tolerate the implant very well.
Does the Implant Cause Weight Gain?
This is one of the most searched questions online.
Current evidence does not show that the contraceptive implant directly causes significant weight gain. However, hormonal contraception can influence appetite, fluid retention, and body composition in some women.
A personalised consultation is helpful to assess whether the implant is suitable based on your hormonal profile and health history.
Does the Contraceptive Implant Affect Fertility?
No, the implant does not cause long-term infertility.
Fertility typically returns quickly after removal, often within a few weeks to a few months.
This makes it an excellent option for women who want reliable contraception now but may wish to conceive in the future.
Implant Removal: When and Why Is It Done?
The implant can be removed at any time if:
- You want to try for pregnancy
- You experience unwanted side effects
- You wish to switch contraception
- The three-year duration has ended
Removal is a simple in-clinic procedure performed under local anaesthetic and usually takes only a few minutes.
Advantages of the Contraceptive Implant
- Over 99% effective contraception
- Lasts up to 3 years
- No daily pills or reminders
- Oestrogen-free (suitable for many medical conditions)
- Discreet and invisible
- Rapid return to fertility after removal
- Cost-effective long-term contraception
For many women, it provides peace of mind and consistent protection without ongoing effort.
Potential Disadvantages to Consider
- Irregular bleeding patterns
- Hormonal side effects in some individuals
- Requires a trained clinician for fitting and removal
- Bruising or tenderness at insertion site (temporary)
Balanced counselling is essential to ensure the method aligns with your lifestyle and health goals.
When Should You See a Doctor About Implant Symptoms?
Seek medical advice if you experience:
- Very heavy or prolonged bleeding
- Severe arm pain or swelling
- Signs of infection (redness, warmth, discharge)
- Sudden new symptoms after stable use
- Concerns about mood or hormonal changes
Is the Contraceptive Implant Right for You?
The “best” contraception is not one-size-fits-all.
At The Female Health Doctor Clinic, implant consultations include:
- Full medical history review
- Hormonal and lifestyle considerations
- Discussion of side effects and expectations
- Personalised contraception planning
This ensures your contraception supports your wider health, not just pregnancy prevention.
Contraceptive Implant FAQs
How long does the contraceptive implant last?
Up to 3 years, after which it should be replaced or removed.
Can you feel the implant in your arm?
Yes, it can usually be gently felt under the skin but is not visibly noticeable.
Is the implant better than the pill?
For many women, yes, because it removes the risk of missed pills and offers higher real-life effectiveness.
Can the implant stop periods completely?
Yes. Some women experience no periods while using the implant, which is medically safe.
Is the contraceptive implant safe?
Yes. It is a clinically approved, widely used, and safe form of long-acting reversible contraception when fitted by a trained clinician.
Contraceptive Implant Fitting in Milton Keynes
We offer contraceptive implant consultations, fittings, and removals in a calm, clinician-led women’s health clinic environment.
Appointments are available both for new fittings and implant removals, with personalised hormonal counselling included.
To book your appointment go here: https://thefemalemoneydoctor.thrivecart.com/implant-fitting-and-removal/
