What is Implanon/Etonogestrel Used for?
Implanon is a method of birth control that contains an ovulation-preventing hormone called etonogestrel. Etonogestrel also causes changes to the cervical mucus and uterine lining that makes it harder for sperm to reach the uterus, and harder for a fertilized egg to attach to the uterus. Implanon is a small plastic rod that is implanted in the skin of your upper arm. The medicine is released slowly into the body. The rod can stay in place and provide contraception for up to 3 years.
How should Implanon/Etonogestrel be stored?
Store Implanon at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep away from children and pets.
General Information
How should I take Implanon/Etonogestrel?
Use Implanon exactly as it was prescribed for you. The timing of when you will receive Implanon depends on if you have used birth control before. Your doctor will tell you when it is appropriate to implant Implanon. Implanon is inserted through a needle into the skin of your upper arm, just inside and above the elbow. The implant will be placed in your arm under local anesthetic in your doctor’s office. Before receiving Implanon, you may need to have a pregnancy test to make sure you are not pregnant. Implanon must be inserted only by a physician trained in the insertion of Implanon. Incorrect placement of the rod can make it difficult or impossible to remove later on. If the rod is inserted incorrectly and falls out, you will no longer be protected against pregnancy. Once an Implanon rod is inserted you should be able to feel it under the skin. If you cannot feel the implant under your skin, tell your doctor right away. The medicine is slowly released into the body from the implant. It can remain in place to provide continuous contraception for up to 3 years. You will not need to use back-up birth control if the implant is placed correctly, however Implanon does not protect against STIs. You will be dressed with two bandages after receiving implanon. You can remove the top bandage after 24 hours, but leave the smaller bandage on for 3 - 5 days. Keep the area dry and clean while wearing the bandage. Implanon must be removed after 3 years. It may be replaced at that time with a new implant. If you choose not to replace with implant with a new one, your ability to become pregnant will quickly return. Some women have become pregnant in the first week after removing the Implanon implant. Start using another form of birth control immediately after removing Implanon if you do not wish to become pregnant.
When should Implanon/Etonogestrel not be taken?
Do not use Implanon if you are pregnant. If you have have recently had a baby, wait at least 4 weeks before using an Implanon device. Do not use mplanon if you have had a history of stroke or blood clot, a history of breast cancer, abnormal vaginal blee
What precautions should I follow when taking Implanon/Etonogestrel?
Tell your doctor if you have had an ovarian cyst, heart disease, high cholesterol, diabetes, gallbladder disease, a seizure disorder, or if you are overweight before using Implanon. Do not smoke while using Implanon, especially if you are older than 35.
What special warning(s) should I be aware of when taking Implanon/Etonogestrel?
Your doctor will need to see you on a regular basis while you are using Implanon. You may also need to have routine mammograms. Be sure to attend all of your scheduled appointments. If you require any medical tests or surgery you may need to have the im
What are the side effects of Implanon/Etonogestrel?
Seek emergency medical help if you have any of these symptoms of an allergic reaction: hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat. Call your doctor immediately if you have any of these serious Implanon side effects: warmth
Less serious side effects include: pain, numbness or tingling where the implant was inserted; minor bleeding or scarring where the implant was inserted; breast pain, acne, freckles, or darkening of facial skin; menstrual cramps, changes in menstrual bleed
