14/10/2025
The contraceptive arm implant is a highly effective, long-acting reversible form of birth control, popularly known as family planning.
What it is exactly?
A small, flexible plastic rod (about 4 cm or 1.6 inches long, similar to a matchstick) that a healthcare provider inserts just under the skin of the inner upper arm.
How it works:
It slowly and continuously releases a low, steady dose of the hormone progestogen (a synthetic version of progesterone).
Progestogen prevents pregnancy primarily by:
1) Stopping ovulation: It prevents the ovaries from releasing an egg.
2) Thickening cervical mucus: This makes it difficult for s***m to pass through the cervix to reach an egg.
3) Thinning the uterine lining: This makes it difficult for a fertilized egg to implant.
Key Features and Effectiveness:
Effectiveness: It is one of the most effective methods, with a failure rate of less than 1 in 100 users per year (over 99\% effective).
Duration: It works continuously to prevent pregnancy for up to three years (some older versions may last longer, but the common one is 3 years) before needing replacement.
Reversibility: It can be removed by a healthcare provider at any time, and fertility typically returns quickly once it is out.
Maintenance: It is a "set-it-and-forget-it" method—you don't have to remember to take a pill daily.
Side Effects:
The most common side effect is a change in the menstrual bleeding pattern, which can include:
Irregular bleeding or spotting, especially in the first few months.
Lighter, shorter, or less frequent periods.
Periods stopping altogether (amenorrhea), which is safe for most users.
Other possible side effects may include headaches, mood changes, or breast tenderness, though these often improve over time.
Important Note: The implant does not protect against Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs); condoms must be used for STI prevention.
