Birth Control: More Info on Norplant

Norplant® Implants

Implants are surgically placed under the skin of the upper arm. The procedure can only be done by an obstetrician/gynecologist. However, in some areas trained technicians and nurse-midwives are allowed to do the procedure after a period of training.

INSERTION OF THE IMPLANTS:
The procedure takes 10-20 minutes. The upper arm area if the hand you use the least is where the implants will be placed. The skin is first washed with an antiseptic. Local anesthesia (pain killer) is injected into the area. An incision (cut) is made about a half an inch long. Each capsule is pushed under the skin through the incision in a fan shaped array. After all six capsules are placed the skin incision is sewn closed. A pressure dressing, which should remain in place 48 hours, is place. It takes 3 - 5 days for the incision to heal. Unless you have redness, swelling or unusual pain after the implants are placed, you see the doctor within three months.
REMOVAL:
This takes longer than insertion and may require more than one visit. The area is washed with an antiseptic solution and injected with a local anesthesia. A small incision is made in the same area as the one for insertion; however several small incisions may be required. Each capsule is removed. In some women they are difficult to locate. New implants may be placed at the time the old ones are removed. Women who scar easily may have scarring from the removal, even if they didn't from the insertion.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT IMPLANTS:

The birth control effect is immediate - as soon as they are implanted.
Capsules can be removed anytime.
Always tell you health care provider if you start new medications, since they may decrease the effectiveness of the implants.
They can be placed:

Day 1 - 7 of the menstrual cycle
Immediately after having a baby if not breast feeding
6 weeks post-partum if breast feeding

Within 7 days of an abortion.

PLEASE NOTE: You must have the implants removed after five years. The chances of pregnancy increases the longer the capsules are left in place beyond this time period. The risk of the pregnancy being ectopic (tubal or other areas outside the uterus) is greatly increased if you do become pregnant after five years with the implants in place.

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