Advantages and disadvantages of the hormonal implant for birth control
The following table lists the advantages and disadvantages of using the Implanon implant birth control method.
Deciding about hormonal implants Consideration
Hormone implant (Implanon)
Advantages1
- Provides extremely effective birth control for 3 years
- Does not require interruption of foreplay or intercourse
- Safe to use while breast-feeding
- Can be used by women who should not take estrogen
- Reduces cramps and pain at ovulation
- Less menstrual bleeding overall
- Can be used by smokers over age 35
- Rapid return to fertility following removal
Disadvantages1
- Unpredictable and irregular menstrual bleeding
- Must be inserted and removed by a trained health professional
- May cause menstrual periods to stop or be very light
- Does not protect against sexually transmitted diseases or HIV
- May cause headaches
| Author: | Bets Davis, MFA | Last Updated: May 22, 2008 |
| Medical Review: | Joy Melnikow, MD, MPH - Family Medicine Kirtly Jones, MD - Obstetrics and Gynecology | |
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