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Implanon
(The Implant Contraceptive or Birth Control Implant)

From Dawn Stacey M.Ed, LMHC, About.com

Updated July 08, 2009

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Implanon is a newer type of birth control implant. It is a thin, flexible implant about the size of a matchstick and is inserted under the skin in the arm.

Implanon

Photo © 2009 Dawn Stacey
Implanon contraceptive implant was FDA-approved in July 2006. This implant contraceptive consists of a thin rod, 40 mm in length and 2 mm in diameter and is made from a flexible plastic (it is latex and silicone free). Implanon is a progestin-only contraceptive option (so it is a type of hormonal birth control method). It continually releases a low dose of etonogestrel (a progestin) to protect against pregnancy for up to 3 years.

Insertion requires a local anesthetic and only takes a few minutes. The implant can also be removed anytime before the 3 years are up. Implanon is a safe, highly effective and discreet birth control method. After removal, a woman’s ability to become pregnant usually returns quickly.

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