Implants

Contraception gets under the skin.

What is it?

A matchstick-sized tube, designed to be fitted under the skin usually on the inside of the upper arm. It releases progestogen into the bloodstream at a slow and steady rate, which provides almost 100% protection against pregnancy for up to three years.

The implant works by limiting or preventing ovulation, and thickening the cervical mucus to make it difficult for sperm to travel to the womb. Currently, there is one brand available in the UK - called Implanon.

How is it fitted?

It's a simple procedure, carried out under local anaesthetic by a doctor, usually during the first five days of the menstrual cycle. The tube is both flexible and unbreakable. It also shouldn't be visible, but you may feel it by pressing over the area with your fingertips.

Benefits

Long-lasting contraceptive effect make implants suitable for scatterbrains who would otherwise take the combined pill/progestogen-only pill, or women in long-term relationships;
On removal of the implant, fertility returns to normal within days;
Unlike the contraceptive pill, you're still protected against pregnancy should you throw up or suffer from diarrhoea.

Drawbacks

Protects against pregnancy but not sex infection. Always use a condom as well to maximise your risk reduction;
The implant can cause temporary side effects such as headaches, weight gain, and breast tenderness in a small percentage of users;
Some women report irregular periods.