There have been a variety of silicon implants that slowly release progestogen to provide contraception. Until recently, the most popular contained levonorgestrel (Norplant). Norplant was introduced as six rods, which were placed under the skin in the arm and could be left there for five years. Pregnancy rates are low (0.3 per 100 woman years ? When the implants are removed, their effects disappear rapidly. Norplant was discontinued in 1999. Currently Implanon is the only available contraceptive implant available in the UK. It has the progestogenic effect of thickening the cervical mucus and keeping the endometrium thin but it also reduces ovulation. Implanon is a single 40mm long and 2mm diameter rod that is easily introduced under the skin of the upper arm. It will function for three years and initial trials have shown no failures. It may stop periods in 20% of users and infrequent spotting may occur in 26%.
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Progestogen-only pills
Long-acting hormonal contraception.?
Levonorgestrel Intrauterine System - LNG-IUS - Mirena
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This is the personal website of David A Viniker MD FRCOG, Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist at Whipps Cross University Hospital, London - Specialist Interests - Reproductive Medicine including Infertility, PCOS, PMS, Menopause and HRT.
I do hope that you find the answers to your women's health questions in the patient information and medical advice provided.
