The contraceptive implant is available as a single radiolucent rod inserted subdermally.
Implant contains 68 mg of progesterone etonogestrel and is effective for up to five years of use.
Its primary mechanism of action is ovulation suppression.
Progestins, in addition, thicken cervical mucus and inhibit sperm penetration.
Contraceptive implants are safe, with the only absolute contraindication being a recent diagnosis of breast cancer.
Implant complications are rare and include: pain, insertion site hematoma, and excessively deep insertion, which increases the risk of neurovascular injury and difficulty in removal.
Amenorrhea and frequent unscheduled light bleeding are associated with implants.
Insertion can be performed at any time during during the menstrual cycle, and pregnancy testing is recommended prior.
pregnancy risk is low.