Implanon is more than 99% effective.  The most important way is by stopping release of an egg from your ovary.  Implanon also thickens the cervical mucus, which acts like a barrier to prevent sperm from being able to fertilize the egg.  In most cases backup contraception is not necessary after insertion; however, in some situations you may need a backup for 7 days after insertion.  Please discuss this with your provider.

Implanon must be removed by the end of the third year.  Certain medications may make Implanon less effective so you may need to use a barrier (condoms) method of contraception while you are taking these medications.

Insertion is done using a local anesthetic and only takes a few minutes.  Some women may feel a pinch similar to a shot when Implanon is inserted.  There may be mild soreness or tenderness at the site for a day to two.  Complications may be pain, numbness/tingling, bleeding, bruising, scarring or infection, but are rare.

Implanon is not for everyone.  Do not use if you are pregnant or think you might be pregnant.  Have or have had serious blood clots in your legs, lungs, eyes, heart, or head.  Have unexplained vaginal bleeding. Have liver disease.  Have or had breast cancer.  Or are allergic to anything in Implanon.  Please let your provider know if you have diabetes, high cholesterol or triglycerides, headaches, seizures or epilepsy, gallbladder or kidney disease, depression, high blood pressure, or an allergic reaction to anesthetics or antiseptics.

Implanon may or may not be covered by your insurance company.  To determine eligibility, call the customer service number on your insurance card.  You may need to explain that Implanon is an implantable contraceptive.  You may call ask our billing representative for the billing codes for Implanon to assure coverage of the device and insertion (separate fee).