Implanon (Birth Control)
Implanon is a plastic, match-stick sized device implanted into the arm by a health-care practitioner. Implanon is a progestin-only form of birth control that can be used even if the user cannot use hormonal birth control containing estrogen. Before making any *decisions* talk with your health care provider to determine if implanon is right for you.
How Long It Lasts: Implanon lasts for 3 years, and can be removed at any time by a health-care practitioner.
Maintenance: Once implanted, no additional maintenance is required of the user. At the end of the 3 year period, a new device may be implanted if the user wants to remain on birth control.
Implanon Specific Side-Effects: People using Implanon may experience no periods, lighter periods or periodic breakthrough bleeding during use.
Effectiveness: Implanon is 99.9% effective in preventing pregnancy.
Note: Implanon does not protect the user from Sexually Transmitted Infections.
Sex therapists can help you gain the confidence to discuss your thoughts and feelings about birth control with your partner, your child and with your GYN. Our sex therapists in Philadelphia are not MD's. For specific medical questions you need to go to your local GYN. If you are living in Philadelphia we can provide you with referalls.