Contraceptive implants are a temporary method of birth control by implanting a synthetic hormone-filled rod under the skin. They can provide birth control for up to 3 and 5 years, depending on the type of medication.
- Type 1 rod (Trade name Etoplan or Implanon, provides birth control for 3 years)
- Type 2 rods (Trade name Jadelle, provides birth control for 5 years)
Prevents pregnancy by suppressing ovulation, making the cervical mucus thicker and more difficult for sperm to pass through, and thinning the uterine lining, making it unsuitable for the implantation of a fertilized egg.
Advantages
- It is a highly effective method of birth control.
- Does not interfere with sexual intercourse.
- One-time insertion lasts 3-5 years.
- Can be used during breastfeeding without affecting the quantity and quality of milk.
- After stopping the use of this medication, you can have children as usual.
- An option for those who forget to take or inject contraceptives.
Limitations
- Does not protect against sexually transmitted diseases. Condoms should be used to prevent sexually transmitted infections.
- Implantation and removal of the implant must be performed by trained healthcare personnel only.
Contraindications for using contraceptive implants.
When can you receive the service?
- The first 5 days of menstruation to ensure you are not pregnant. The doctor will implant the hormone, which is contained in a small plastic rod, under the skin of the inner upper arm. It becomes effective in preventing pregnancy 24 hours after implantation. If implanted at another time, condoms should be used for about 7 days after the implant.
- 4-6 weeks after childbirth.
- Immediately after a natural miscarriage or after receiving a safe abortion service, or 2-3 weeks later.
Side effects
- Irregular menstruation, spotting, and symptoms will decrease about 6 months after implantation.
- Possible but infrequent side effects include weight gain, acne, and headaches.
Additional recommendations
- If switching from monthly birth control pills, implant the contraceptive the day after taking the last hormone pill.
- If switching from injectable contraceptives, implant on the due date for the next injection or before the due date for the next injection.
- When the time is up, go to a healthcare facility to have the rod removed. If you want to continue with the implant, have it implanted on the day the previous one is removed.
**Teenagers under 20 years old and all ages after miscarriage/abortion receive free contraceptive services.
**Health service information click: https://rsathai.org/healthservice
Source: Book “When Unplanned Pregnancy Happens, Life Has Choices: Hundreds of Ways to Find a Solution”