What is the contraceptive implant?

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 etonogestrel (a type of progestogen) which stops the ovaries from releasing an egg every month (ie: it inhibits ovulation). You cannot get pregnant if ovulation does not happen. The implant also thickens the mucus in the cervix (the opening of the uterus) and stops sperm from going up any further.
 
Although no contraceptive is 100% effective, the implant is more than 99% effective against pregnancy, making it one of the most effective contraceptives available.
 
The Implanon NXT is an implant that is available in Malta.
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