Birth Control Method
Hormonal Implant
Description
Norplant implants are six matchstick-sized rods inserted into the upper arm that give off very small amounts of a hormone much like the progesterone a woman produces during the last two weeks of each monthly cycle. Norplant is effective for up to five years (depending upon the type inserted).
How It Works
You must see a health-care professional to get Norplant. After you are given a local anesthetic, insertion takes about 7 to 10 minutes and usually does not hurt. You will probably be given a date to return about one month after insertion to check out the insertion site and to answer any questions you may have.
Should You Use It?
Norplant is one of the most effective methods of contraception, but it does not protect against the transmission of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Also, some women have experienced severe reactions to Norplant. If you have a monogamous partner who has tested negative for STIs, you might want to try Norplant. Also, teenagers using Norplant have higher continuation rates and lower pregnancy rates than teenagers choosing to use birth control pills or Depo-Provera injections.
Effectiveness
Among typical couples who initiate use of Norplant implants, only one in 1,000 will experience an accidental pregnancy in the first year.
STI Protection
Norplant does not prevent the transmission of sexually transmitted infections, including HIV.
Advantages
- Extremely effective against preventing unwanted pregnancy.
- Effective for one to five years.
- No maintenance required on a daily basis or at the time of intercourse to prevent pregnancy.
- Only one clinic checkup a year is necessary.
- Women using Norplant lose less menstrual blood.
- Depression and premenstrual symptoms may improve (or worsen).
Disadvantages
- Norplant is quite likely to cause irregular periods. If your bleeding pattern is bothersome to you, contact your clinician. There are medications that may give you a more acceptable pattern of bleeding. As time goes on your periods may become more regular.
- Side effects can include weight gain, hair loss, headaches, breast tenderness, arm discomfort or darkening of the skin over your implants.
- Depression and premenstrual symptoms may worsen (or improve).
- A woman may have trouble finding a clinician who will remove her implants.
- Norplant implants do not protect you from HIV or other infections.
Where to Buy It
You can get Norplant implants from your doctor, nurse practitioner, nurse midwife, health department, or family planning clinic. Not all clinicians insert implants. Check in advance. You may qualify for free Norplant implants from the Norplant Foundation. Call 1-800-760-9030 for more information. They can also help you get your Norplant removed.
Follow Up
Be sure the clinician inserting your Norplant is also experienced at removing implants and will remove them whether or not you are able to pay to have them removed.
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