How is the contraceptive implant inserted?
The implant, such as Nexplanon or Implanon NXT, is fitted at a gynaecologist's clinic with a very small surgical procedure. The doctor will first give you some local anaesthetic to numb the skin of your inner arm. Then the implant, which is a small plastic rod with hormones, is inserted just under the skin of your inner arm.
Once the procedue is done you will be able to feel the rod under the skin but there shouldn't be any discomfort. Be sure to check it's still there and hasn't moved from time to time. If you think the rod is changing its position, speak to your doctor.
For the implant to be immediately effective against pregnancy, time the insertion either during your period or immediately after the last tablet in a contraception pill pack.
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What is the contraceptive implant?
The contraceptive implant (also known as a sub-dermal implant or hormonal implant) is a small rod with hormones that is around 4cm in length with a diameter of 2mm and is fitted under the skin of your arm. The implant releases the hormone ...
How do I get the contraceptive implant in Malta?
In Malta the Implanon NXT, which is an implant that lasts for three years, costs around 185 Euro. This does not include doctors' fees and clinic fees. You can have the implant inserted, replaced, or removed at private gynaecology clinics, such as St ...
How is the contraceptive implant removed or replaced?
Once it's at the end of its lifetime (usually after three years), the implant is removed at a gynaecologist's clinic. Again, you'll be given some local anaesthetic over the area. The doctor will then make a tiny cut in the skin and remove the rod. ...
What are the advantages of a contraceptive implant?
The contraceptive implant has a number of advantages when compared to other contraceptives, including: The implant can be used by women who cannot take the hormone oestrogen (for example women who are smokers and are over 35 years old, or women with ...
How effective is the contraceptive implant?
The implant is more than 99% effective at preventing pregnancy, making it one of the most effective contraceptives available in Malta. Remember that the implant does not protect you against sexually transmitted infections.