Is a Contraceptive Implant Safe?

Contraceptive implants are small, flexible rods placed under the skin of your inner upper arm during a quick, in-office procedure. They provide years of effective birth control with minimal maintenance. 

The team at North Atlanta OB/GYN serves patients in Alpharetta, Marietta, and Atlanta, Georgia, and we offer various forms of birth control, including the contraceptive implant. We provide compassionate, personalized women’s health care and if you’re looking for contraception, we want to help you find the method that best fits your lifestyle.

In this post, we explain more about this convenient form of contraception and answer questions like: “How does it work?” and “Is it safe?”

How the contraceptive implant works

Implants like Nexplanon® placed under your skin release a steady, low dose of etonogestrel, which is a progestin or a synthetic progestin hormone. This prevents pregnancy by stopping the ovaries from releasing eggs and thickening the cervical mucus, making it harder for sperm to reach an egg.

Getting a contraceptive implant takes only minutes in our office. When we insert the implant, we first numb the area to reduce discomfort. You may have some swelling, tenderness, or bruising around the implant site, and our arm may ache for a few days or so.

Why choose a contraceptive implant

Implants offer a number of benefits when you want to prevent pregnancy, such as:

• Highly effective: With a failure rate under 1%, implants provide continuous protection for about three years
• Effortless maintenance: No daily pills, no monthly refills
• Reversible anytime: When you want to try for pregnancy, removal of the implant is quick, and fertility usually returns rapidly
• Nonestrogen alternative: The contraceptive implant is ideal for those who can’t use estrogen-based contraceptives due to health concerns

Your contraceptive implant also may ease period symptoms. Some women notice lighter periods, less cramping, and improved cycle comfort.

Safety and possible side effects

Contraceptive implants are generally very safe when inserted by our trained team. Complications, like infection, are rare. Possible side effects are usually temporary can include:

• Irregular bleeding (common in the first months)
• Headaches
• Mild acne
• Weight changes

If side effects persist, you’re not stuck with the implant. We can easily remove it and discuss other contraceptive options with you.

Many women benefit from the convenience and reliability of contraceptive implants, but they aren’t for everyone. We’ll help you decide through a thorough medical history review, physical exam, and conversation about your preferences.

Contact North Atlanta OB/GYN to set up an appointment.