Contraceptive implant

hanp24 said on 01 February 2012

I'm just getting to the end of my 3 years with an Implanon implant. It's done it's job, ie I haven't fallen pregant, but I will be changing to another type of contraception now.

The worst thing has been my complete lack of routine with periods, sometimes there has been nothing for a couple of months, and sometimes it's been almost a constant light period for a couple of months. It's been so frustrating and sometimes distressing. It's also really unnerving to lose control of timings and I've been worried I wouldn't know if I was pregnant or not.

There have also been a couple of times that I was convinced I was pregnant, but this seems to be a common feeling (this was scary)

I also COMPLETLEY lost my sex drive- almost overnight I went from having a really healthy sex drive to feeling completely not fussed about it at all.

One good thing is that I didn't put on any weight (in fact I lost 3 stone, but due to healthy eating and exercise)

niki92 said on 01 February 2012

Hi,
Can anyone help I've had the implant in just over a month and it had moved a little bit, and I'm able to move it with my fingers. Is that normal?

Wapsmurphy said on 01 February 2012

I had the Nexplanon implant about 4 months ago and I must admit it is great and there's no need to worry about forgetting to take your pill.

However, saying that I have recently started to have pain going from my armpit and under my boob on the side that the implant is in. It's not so painful that I feel I should go to the doctors yet but was wondering if anyone has had similar pains?

I'd never go back on the pill but would warn other women that it takes a while to get used to being able to feel it under your skin.

tamalyn said on 24 January 2012

i would not have an implant if you paid me!!

my 17 year old daughter had it done when she was 16 so i didnt have to worry - but no doctor or nurse monitored her the whole time and she has put excessive weight on - gone up 2 dress sizes - i thought she was munching but shes doing a sports btech and is fitter than the rest of the girls in her class. she now has MASSIVE STRETCH MARKS going down the insides of her legs and wont be able to wear a shorts again let alone a bikini without feeling very self concious, i feel absoultely awful that she has had to suffer this and wish i had read these comments 6 months ago - and stopped her getting these awful stretch marks, i want to sue the makers of this implant!! i am so upsetl she is having the implant out in 2 days and i cannot wait.

HB178 said on 20 January 2012

i've had a Implanon implant for 2 and a half years now and i was just wondering when i should get it replaced? i'm not overweight or anything so shall i leave it for a bit longer? also does it hurt to get it taken out? it didn't hurt particularly when it was put it and i didn't have anaesthetic so i'm hoping it'll be ok with local anaesthetic

magnet said on 17 January 2012

does anyone know if u can tattoo over your implant .? .. will it damage it in anyway ? :)

i_am_sherlocked said on 17 January 2012

You shouldn't need a blood test - I didn't, but you may need to take a pregnancy test as the implant can cause serious problems if you are pregnant when it is fitted.

holzway said on 16 January 2012

please help!
do i need a blood test before i get this implant?
or is my doctors being totally thick?

i_am_sherlocked said on 16 January 2012

I've just had the implant replaced after already having had it for three years. It's definitely the best form of contraception I've used, plus in that time I've only had 3 or 4 periods which were really light and only lasted a day or two. I've still felt hormonal and moody at times but nothing much.

When I first had it put in it (first time round), my arm was sore and bruised for a few days but the scar was tiny and now is barely noticeable. I can only see it when I look hard for it. The removal was a little uncomfortable but not at all painful. It is feeling sore now but I was advised to take Ibuprofen which I am doing and it is reducing the ache. Will see how it feels when the bandage is taken off and see what the bruising is like.

I can't recommend the implant enough, I know a lot of people experience heavy bleeding but I was told that if the mini-pill (progesteron only) pill works for you, then the implant should too as it's similar hormone.

kirst2412 said on 15 January 2012

Hello
I have just had my implant replaced this week and I have to say I had Implanon for 3 years and think it is brilliant. I had 2 weeks period when I first had it inserted but no periods since with none of the side effects either. The replacement implant is Nexplanon which i believe is exactly the same but this can be detected on x-ray. I have to say I had a lot of bruising this time round and the removal was a bit painful as the nurse didnt let the anaesthetic take effect properly, but apart from that and the unsightly bruising which is starting to settle it is really good. The effects are different for every one but for me i have all the benefits.

tally1 said on 03 January 2012

hi, i got the implant put in in february 2011, this is what happened to me:
1) the first month i had no bleeding at all (which made sense seeing as i got the implant put in the day after my prior period had ended) and then had a period as normal
2) this period was normal but a few days after i began another very light 'period', this continued for a while, i had very little time when i was not bleeding although often it only appeared as it does towards the end of a period, it could sometimes be heavier although was never particularly 'heavy'
3) in july i went on holiday so got some hormal pills from the doc to stop the bleeding, this worked a dream and i didn't bleed for 2 weeks
4) after i came off these pills i had a very heavy bleed which then settled down to the light 'spotting' as before
5) towards september-time i got some very heavy bleeding until october
6) one day in october my periods just stopped altogether and i haven't had one since

all in all, i would say it was worth getting, the spotting was annoying but light enough so that most of the time it did not interfere with my sex life. i also had no other side effects and the procedure was simple and relatively painless.

my friend has a light 2 week period every 6-8 weeks on hers.

User628751 said on 31 December 2011

gweeny22 After reading your comment I thought i'd reply back because I felt the same way as you only I never craved twix :)
I got my contraceptive implant in 2010 in february I was 17 years old and I moved in with my partner in april and between then my periods were very irregular and would often vary not just from week to week but from day by day and as much as they say its normal and to be expected I was quite shocked and scared to see how much my body was changing.
I gained a lot of weight which I was warned about beforehand and I have struggled to get any off because my attitude towards food had then changed.

What I wanted to reassure you on was your lack of sex drive because after moving in with my partner I thought it would be fantastic to have a new start and looking forward to no pregnancy worries and just living together happily but I was very wrong. When it came to the bedroom I was just never interested which me and my partner found awkward because we've always had a healthy sex life and it soon started to concern us as its concerning you now but I assure you it should pass x I have nearly had my implant 2 years and our sex life was much better than when I first had the implant.
There are a few self concious issues I have which often hold me back some days but it helps when you communicate them wih your partner.
Try not to worry too much because its not forever and talk to your partner about the way you feel so he can understand that it frustrates you aswell. It helps to not think negative and always talk about how you feel.

I know the implant varies from person to person so your sex drive may return much quicker or could return a lot longer than others but it wont go away completely. Hang in there because you havent been alone in that subject and for a lot of us it went away as time went on xxx

mellowyellow123 said on 31 December 2011

I thought that the implant would be the easiest, most stress-free form of contraception for me. I never suited the pill - mainly because I forgot to take it a lot of the time, but also because it made me extremely moody and gave me abdominal pains.

However, I have been on the implant for a year now and the effects have not settled down yet. I have about four days a month where I'm NOT on my period. And my periods aren't exactly light either, which can't be healthy, and it gives me excruciating pains.
I have extreme mood swings, which have effectively caused me to become depressed again, which I spent years fighting. I sometimes think I'm becoming bipolar, it's that extreme.
Not to mention the fact that I have absolutely no sex drive what-so-ever. In fact, the very mention of sex seems to offend me now. It kind of defeats the object for having contraception really...

gvveeny22 said on 22 December 2011

I had my implant put in 3 months ago and i bleed non stop for about a month and then the bleeding stopped and then about a week later i started bleeding again which i guessed was my period.
It was the most wired period i have ever had as i bleed so lightly that some times it was a waste of time even using a tampon and that lasted for around 2 weeks when i thought my period had stopped i would have light bleeding the next day.
But the bleeding stopped completely stopped about 3 weeks ago and ive been feeling like im pregnant apart from having morning sickness which is what i get really bad when i am pregnant. I cant stop craving chocolate well only twix its weird, and ive gained 8lbs.
Some that REALLY bothers me is that have 0% sex drive which is starting to become a problem with me and my partner as i dont even want him to touch me....has any one else had this problem? I'm not bother by wait gain and odd periods but my lack of sex drive worries me. :(

littleboo90 said on 22 December 2011

I had my implant inserted in Feb 2011, I have experienced differences in my body but nothing major. I have had 4 periods since then that are really heavy but are gone after a few days. My implant sometimes aches for no apparent reason, my body does sometimes think its pregnant but that doesn't make any difference to me. I am a size 10 like I always have been, I am not pregnant so it's a winner to me. Like everyone says it all depends on your individual body but don't knock it til you've given it a chance.

Jessicaa12 said on 13 December 2011

Hi.
I got my implant 4 and half months ago now and haven't stopped bleeding since - sometimes lighter than other days but constant. I find i cry for almost no reason and feel depressed more frequently before and at littler things that wouldn't of bothered me in the past - i don't know if this is coincidence or not. I constantly feel slugish and unattractive. I also feel tired, like this process has gone on for too long. After recently splitting up with my boyfriend i'm starting to consider removing it as it is such a pain! but don't know if the bleeding will end soon or not. also quiet scared of possible impacts in the future?!
The inserting of the implant didn't hurt as much as expected and was quickly over just with some occasional aches for the rest of the day.

hope my experience helps anyone!

katt23 said on 12 December 2011

Hi there i had the implant in 2 months ago after having my first baby. In the short time i have had it in i have put on weight and have had to be extremely careful with what i eat and i run 3 miles plus, 4 times a week and still cnt loose all the weight i have gained. I am moody most of the time and seem to snap at almost anything which really is not like me at all. I have been to both my doctors and the family planning clinic and both refused to remove it and gave reasons that it cost money to put it in and that they want it in at least 6 months before considering taking it out. I am appalled with the way i have been treated. I pay my contributions to the nhs and it should be my decision to have it removed. instead i will have to wait and possibly out on more weight which puts my health at risk and in the long run will cost the nhs more money. i will have it out when they say i can but i really do not see what difference it will make if i have it out now or in a few months. What about my human rights!!!

karen24 said on 09 December 2011

I am on my 2nd implant (implanon), got my first when i was 18 and it has been brilliant, from the day i had it i have not had a period since! Can't even imagine having one now.
Many people here have talked of weight gain but that was not a problem with me, I was slightly underweight when i got it and continued to lose weight. have since put weight on but that's just due to me eating properly now! i'm also anaemic so is good not to be losing extra iron through a period. i can only say good things about the implant and plan to be on it until i want a family, and hopefully can go back on after! sorry to hear that's not the case for everyone, i guess it effects people in different ways and you wont know until you've tried it, but it is worth trying.

random_moo said on 29 November 2011

I got the implant done just under a week ago, and i am due on my period around now. i normally feel that i am coming on my period before, but i havent felt anything. however, i did have sex the night before i came on my period. need to know if im pregnant or the implant is causing me not to have my period?? really worried!

babyface19 said on 29 November 2011

I was wondering if anyone can give me a bit of advice. I have recently made an appointment with my doctor to get the implant put in, and the appointment is made for around the time my period is due, to ensure I am not pregnant. However, i was just wondering, does the doctor actually check if you are on your period or does he take your word for it and get started? Im quite nervous (actually very nervous) about the whole process, I just want to get it over and done with. im naturally very shy and even going to the doctor about it in the first place freaked me out!!! any information about the whole process that anyone can give me will be greatly appreciated!!!

playdoh666 said on 28 November 2011

Iv had the implant since march after I got pregnant last year when using the pill. After having a termination I decided I wouldn't take the risk with the pill anymore. I started getting really bad acne so now I have to take a pill everyday for that. Iv put on weight, I get awful headaches but the most horrible thing the last few months is having the feeling I'm pregnant! I feel sick, faint, have painful boobs, even had the cramping without bleeding I had when I got pregnant.... its making me feel quite low and guilty because I'm getting so broody, I'm feeling quite emotional at the slightest thing aswell. However after all this moaning about the implant I couldn't go back to remembering a pill everyday! I just wish the pregnant feeling would go away as its making me extremely paranoid!

RG91 said on 28 November 2011

I have been on the implant for just over a year and for the first few months i thought it was great. Previous to getting the implant i was on the depo injection. I now think that the first few months were ok because of the injection still being in my system.

I have put on nearly 2 stone in a year, and find it very difficult to budge the weight. My sex drive has depleted. I find my mood to be very erratic, i can go from being happy as pie to feeling i could punch through a wall in an instant. I get really bad headaches almost everyday, and to top it all off I have been on my period non stop for the past 2 months, and prior to that i would come on whenever my body felt like it (everytime i did even a little bit of light exercise or got stressed), so i never knew when to expect to be on. i have also found that i get lots of spots on my cheeks, and a few on my back, when I used to have very clear skin.

I am getting the implant removed tomorrow, and I think i am going straight back onto the injection, but now thinking about it I can't remember what I was like when I was on the injection, so I might just give my body a rest for a few months!

I wouldn't recommend the implant, it is just too unpredictable.

highfive said on 22 November 2011

Hello!

I had my first implant when I was 17. I have always been chubby and I have always been a bit depressive.

With the first implant over the space of about 3 months I went mental. Looking back I feel a bit sorry for my then boyfriend who had to put up with it. But on the other hand he probably had something to do with my unhappiness. I found that everything was heightened if I was happy I was beaming if I was sad I was depressed.

This I now think is quite natural your body is just coping with the higher hormone level. I would say to all of you who are dealing with the first few months to stick it out.

As for the weight I think if my yo-yo-ing is down to the implant I'll be happy to be shot of it. but truly I don't think it is to blame. I've been my thinnest and my fattest on this little stick thing. I think it is probably more to do with the initial mood swings that can occur in the first year.

In total I have had 6 years on the implant and I have loved it. I'm considering having a 3rd when my current one comes out in Dec. However I don't know if it affects my fertility long term. My current partner is worried about when happens when we DO want kids and I don't want to find out that I can't conceive.

rw

playdoh666 said on 22 November 2011

I had nexplanon fitted in march straight from using the pill. The pill wasnt for me as after coming back from Sri Lanka I got ill and ended up pregnant. I didnt want a baby then neither did my patner so I had to do one of the hardest things ever!. I didnt want the coil or the injection so opted for the implant. At first was great periods were pretty much regular, lost half a stone, really happy. Then I startedc getting acne really badly, the doctor give me some antibiotics, which cleared it up well but I now have to remember to take it everyday longterm other wise my skin would be awful. I have also put on a stone which really gets me down. Im not fat size 12 but constantly feel fat. Another thing which really gets me down is the feeling that im pregnant. 3 different times iv done tests all negative but iv got the same feelings i did when i was pregnant even the bloated rounded stomach. I feel really broody now and get quite emotional over nothing but that never went away from being pregnant!. I dont want to have it removed as i dont have to do anything to prevent pregnancy but I hate constantly feeling like I do, I already feel guilty about what I did the last time. This just brings it all back and makes me constantly think what if!

ErinLaura9 said on 16 November 2011

I posted when I first had the implant inserted and said how wonderful it had been. I may have spoken too soon.

Since my last post I have had;
*Disrupted sleep
*Severe iron deficiancy (due to constant bleeding)
*Severe mood swings
*Moderate to severe OCD symptoms (I had mild OCD but the implant seems to have made it worse but I can't prove this as it could be a progression of the condition rather than the implant, but I feel it may have hand in it)
*paranoia
*Confusion/jumbled/odd thoughts
*Crying for no reason.

I am not sure how many of these are down to the implant, but I am not risking it. I had three fabulous months but from then on it has been a steady decline into what feels like me losing my mind. I asked my boyfriend if he could pinpoint when my behaviour became more irratic and he said about 7months in, but I had been trying to fight the symptoms from about 4/5months in. I am seeing the Family Planning Clinic tomorrow to discuss having it removed as I simply can't go on like this. Like I have said, it may not be the implant, but if it is, I want to get rid of it.

I will post again in a couple of weeks or months after it has been removed and let you know the results. Hopefully this may help people decide if it's for them. I think it was worth a try but not sure the massive dose of hormones worked for me.

lisalou1971 said on 25 October 2011

Hi. My daughter had her implant removed last night due to massive weight gain - 3 stone over 7 months. She is prone to putting weight on but had been a steady weight for 2 years. Looking at other comments I think she's had the mood swings and hair loss due to the implant as well. I know some people have found it ok, but I would definitely be wary, especially if you're prone to weight gain. She is now left with stretch marks and low confidence and her BMI jumped from 27 to 38 in 7 months - that's a worry now. She has been given the mini-pill, as the nurse said that due to the weight gain it would be safer than the combined pill. I feel so sorry for her. If it can change your body so drastically in such a short space of time from the outside, god knows what's been going on inside. Fingers crossed the mini-pill will help. I read a comment about possible water retention. She has been needing the toilet all day today and has had stomache ache. I'm just hoping that's a good thing.

catlover5 said on 22 October 2011

hi some advice please, i have had the implant in for about 8 months and have been suffering with really nasty stomach cramps, and then the other week i bled non stop and felt really tired its the worst i've been since i had the implant,in, my doc asked me to go for blood tests which came back clear, and now i have to go for an internal exam not looking forward to that,, as my doc said he was concerned that i was getting cramps but not bleeding so has anyone else had that problem, my doc does seem to think its the implant causing this, not sure myself i do like the easiness of the implant not having to remember have you took your pills plus dont want to have kids

JacquiJaxx said on 19 October 2011

Hi all,

I wanted to comment again as per my previous comment on the 15th of September I am in my 3rd year, I have joined weight watchers and already lost 1 stone in a month even with my implant in, I have had a blood test and be giving the all clear, I think I was blaming the implant for alot of things and the doctor telling me it was preventing me from losing weight seems to be untrue and I have now proved him wrong.

I went to hospital today and I am having mine removed on the 5th of Dec, but having it replace with a new one, Im 27 and dont plan to have children with my boyfriend yet, we wouldnt be able to afford a child at the moment. but more than anything apart from the weight gain which Iam now losing the implant has been pretty good in my 3 years with it so far.

The doctor did say today if when I have the new implant I have bleeding for more than a week I should go back and also have a tablet to help stop the bleeding, in my 3 years with the implant I have only had abit of spotting which is good going as I use to have very heavy periods.

Good luck to those having it, im now looking forward to my next one (im rubbish taking pills so im happy with the implant) :D x

orla435 said on 19 October 2011

I had the implant inserted 3 months ago and so far it has been great. insertation was fine for me, the only stingy bit is the general anaesthetic for a second or two. I've had no weight gain or bad skin, or mood swings. i've had 1 or 2 periods and they have been at a normal amount and time, and my sex drive has increased! My friend also has it and it seems to be treating her well too.
i know i'm lucky, but just to show you it's not bad for everyone!

small93 said on 08 October 2011

hi, im 18 and had the implant put in 7 months ago, since then i had been on my period heavily non-stop, so 2 days ao i decided to see my doctor who has iven me some pills to take called utovlan (norethisterone), which has stopped my period staright away so far, with no sign of my periods returning, it may be a ood idea for eople suffering with the same effects to suggest the idea to their doctor to see if it is ok for them. with implant i have suffered no weight gain, no mood swings, or stomach cramps , just being on all the time which obviousy caused me to be a bit tired, but i just iwshed i had seen the doctor sooner so i could have been happier a few months ago!

Trish18 said on 05 October 2011

Hi there, im in a bit of predicament myself, im only 18, and my implant gets removed this february coming, however, the problem i am facing is whether or not to have another one put in. i do want children, its a big ambition of mine, but one of the things putting me off getting another implant is the thought of getting cervical cancer etc (something that will prevent me having children) its the big worry for me because i do want to be a mum at some point, i know im still young but the thing is im quite unsure what to do. any suggestions? or thoughts on my issue?

Trish18 said on 05 October 2011

Hi there, im in a bit of predicament myself, im only 18, and my implant gets removed this february coming, however, the problem i am facing is whether or not to have another one put in. i do want children, its a big ambition of mine, but one of the things putting me off getting another implant is the thought of getting cervical cancer etc (something that will prevent me having children) its the big worry for me because i do want to be a mum at some point, i know im still young but the thing is im quite unsure what to do. any suggestions? or thoughts on my issue?

User601635 said on 04 October 2011

Thank you all for your comments - they have greatly reassured me that I am not alone! I had the implant fitted 4 months ago, and have been on a constant period since then (heavy) and am extremely lethargic, unmotivated and tired. I have been unhappy in my job for a while, and planned to job hunt/apply elsewhere, but since having the implant, I just cannot muster the strengh or motivation to do it. I know it seems easy blaming the implant, but I think it has made me depressed, as part of the reason I will not seek alternative employment is because I no longer believe in myself or my abilities, and often feel worthless. I am horrible to my boyfriend/argumentative and can never 'let things go.' Constant period has destroyed sex life. I really want it taken out, and to go back on the pill, but I fell pregnant several months back whilst on cilest, which resulted in a termination, which is why I opted for this form of contraception, as it is more effective. I am worried about going back on the pill, as I could not go through a termination again, but neither am I ready for motherhood. All in all, I feel the implant has changed me as a person, into someone I do not recognise or like. I want to feel like me again.

peach 1993 said on 03 October 2011

hi guys rang up the surgery today and am having the implant next week as im so rubbish at taking my pill (cilest) its been a life saver for the last 3/4 years i went on it at about 13 or 14 as my periods were so painful i could hardly stand up. ive been reading all the posts and am not bothered about mood swings, random crying, cramps whatever my big main concern is WEIGHT GAIN this is possibly the most scariest though for me as i have lost 2 and a half stone in the last year and never ever wanna be back where i was very depressed and unhappy so if anyone is convinced the implant has made them put on weight then id love to hear from you
cheerse guys x

peach 1993 said on 03 October 2011

hi guys, ive rang up my surgery today and made an appointment to get the implant because im so rubbish at taking my pill (cilest) which i have to say has really been a life saver for the last 3 to 4 years i started my periods at about 13/14 and whenever i was on my period wuldnt of been able to go to school for at least 2 days because they were so heavy and painful i could hardly stand up straight. i am now 17 and think its best to get the implant as iv also recently had a pregnancy scare and there would be none of this to worry about with the implant. i have been reading all these posts and couldnt give a toss about mood swings, random crying, cramps the one big main concern i have is the WEIGHT GAIN this is really worrying me at the moment because i have recently worked my ass off the last year to lose 2 and a half stone and weight gain to me now is the most scariest thing so would love to hear back from anyone who is convinced that the implant has made them gain weight :L
cheerse guys x

Fluff84 said on 02 October 2011

I had the implant fitted in may this year, I had as I was always forgetting to take the pill, at first there was no problems, but over the last month or so, my period can last up to 2weeks and the other days of the month I have a redish brownish discharge, I feel moody and have no sex drive, I have just got married so this is a major issue, I don't know whether to have it removed or wait, I know no one else with an implant and my hubby doesn't really understand, I really don't know ifitvwasva good idea

chelsiex said on 29 September 2011

Hello all :)

I looked at this page before getting the implant myself, and it worried me out of my mind. At my age I just couldn't become pregnant, I'm not old enough and do not want a child so I had to find a method with a high chance of preventing that happening, this was the best option due to how long it lasts etc. However this page scared me due to all the bad reviews, but honestly, most people who have a good time with this implant don't bother to review, most people only review when bad things happen you see, so to anyone thinking of getting it:

I had my implant done 3 months ago, according to the doctor who inserted my implant the first 3 months are the worst however I've been fine. I hoped I was one of the lucky ones who didn't get a period, sadly not :( but I've had no bad experiences so far, I bleed for about 3/4 days twice a month but it's not heavy a all. No pains. The only side affect I had was an extremely mild case of dizziness for about 10 minutes each day for the first week or two, but since then I've forgotten about it more than I can remember! I don't even know it's there. My friend came to the clinic on the same day as I did and she decided to get the implant also, I've heard nothing but good reviews from her too. Honestly, anyone who's thinking of getting it, the bad reviews on here are only a handful of people who've had the implant, most people have good experiences with it. I'd recommend it any day of the week.

I hope I've helped :)

funsmiley said on 21 September 2011

hi, i commented on here back in April about my implant this is just an update.

the first months i was quite optimistic about it,i had no problems really except slight bleeding on and off which wasn't to bad and the odd mood swing. anyway. about 3 months after having it fitted i began to become quite anxious, i suffer from anxiety anyway but the implant seemed to have increased it.

then came the bleeding non-stop. i knew before i had the implant fitted that it could either make me bleed or not at all, so i was kind of prepared but i wasn't prepared for the lack of energy and tiredness.

at the moment i bleed everyday sometimes heavy red blood and sometimes just lightly but the blood is a brownish colour like old blood. I often feel bloated and wouldn't be surprised if i have put on weight.

im still deciding weather or not to have it removed, though i would prefer to keep it as i am still in a stable relationship. I've tried to get an appointment at my sexual health clinic but at the moment its proving difficult because the place is being refurbished and is only open Monday mornings which i find appalling refurbishment or not.

from what I've read of the other comments people have gone through similar things and some have had no problems at all so it really just is how your body copes with the adjustment.

im hoping to get an appointment soon if not i shall have to go to my GP and see what they say.

i will update then.

ky2206 said on 18 September 2011

I've had the Implant since June and had suspected there was a link between it and my recent health problems but until I read the comments on here I wasn't sure.
Thank God I'm not destined to be a sad, obese, psychotic spinster after all! The moods, the headaches, the loss of libido and definitely the weight gain all make sense now, I hate this thing and am having it removed ASAP but can anyone tell me if you lose the weight again? I stopped smoking a year ago but didn't put that much on till I had the implant, now Im a balloon. Is there light at the end of the tunnel?

Natassia28 said on 18 September 2011

I'm 28 years old and had mine inserted last September. After reading and watching several horror stories on Implanon, I opted to get it anyway. I had just gotten a new job after a period of umemployment and my free plan with planned parenthood was almost up so I figured I'd give it a shot. In spite of a bit of pain in the arm once the local anesthesia wore off, this has been great!

It's been a year and I've had my period only twice! Not only is my period very infrequent, but it's also very very light and lasts about 3 days. I've also lost weight due to the low dose of hormones. I've never been chubby, but in order to stay thin while on the pill, I had to curb my calorie intake and I don't have to do that with the implant. After 10 years on the pill, my metabolism has totally gone back to normal. Also there's the convenience factor of not having to take a pill every day and not having to use an alternate method when you realize you haven't taken it for a couple days.

The only thing that I don't like is that when I was on the pill, I never got pimples. I know this was due to the hormone dosage, so you can't have it all. As long as I drink my barley grass every day, I don't break out.

Overall, I've had an excellent experience with the implant. I know every body is different, but mine definitely agress with Implanon. After my 3 years is up, I'll likely be inserting a new one into my opposing arm : )

JacquiJaxx said on 15 September 2011

Hi all,
I am 27 and I have had the implant for 3 years now and had lots of ups and downs, at first it was great, cause I went from extremely heavy periods for 3-5days to nothing so for that alone it was a great idea at the time. But over the last year or so I have been getting more depressed due to the weight gain. At first I thought it was other factors in my life eg:stress, losing my job etc etc, but now I have a new job life is great with my boyfriend it made me start to think more deeply.
As im coming to the end of my 3 years it really makes you think if you want to go through it again or not.
I have become very depressed and moody due to gaining around 2.5 stone in the nearly 3 years, I go to the gym, walk the dog and im pretty active playing netball etc as well. But over the last few years I have lost the energy to do anything really and it has really affected my life.
Due to gaining the weight I am now on the verge of becoming diabetic even though I have been healthy over the years, I went to my doctor and he advised from all my side effects (blurry vision, headaches, needing to go to the toilet all the time etc) these are early signs of Diabetes. He advised that the implant is stopping me from losing the weight, I was all for the implant due to me hating to take pills and I didnt like the idea of the coil, but now I just want the weight to go back down, and the implant out, I want my energy back and my life back on track, its amazing how gaining weight can affect your whole life and daily routine.
The implant is good for some people but I feel the weight gain is a huge factor that they dont advise you enough on, my doctor said on average you can gain 10lbs per year (nealy a stone). I have to go to hospital to have it removed and they going to advise me on an alternative like the combi pill, which I hope helps.
Good luck to everyone x :) <3

CL25 said on 12 September 2011

I have been reading peoples comments on here, and to be honest I am so relieved.

I was on the pill (Cilest) for two years, but it didnt work for me, i was always concerned I would miss one. At the time a friend recommended the Implant. I went to the Doctors to talk about having it fitted. I have now had it for 10 months, and I cant believe how it has changed me.

Firstly - Weight Gain. I have gone from a petite size 10 to, a large 12, and at 5'2, it shows!! i know its easy to blame weight gain on things like this, but my diet and routines have not changed at all. I am relitivly healthy other then the odd boozy night, every now and then. But I went from 8st 10lb, to 10st 7lb and its devastating. Nothing fits any more and I dont even see the same person in the mirror. My skin is hurrendous, I get break outs all the time, when I never had any problems with my skin before.

Secondly - Mood Swings. I am more argumentative with my boyfriend. I NEVER used to argue or want to argue. I suffer more with anxiety, paranoia, low moods, more tearful then ever before, more snappy over things that would never have bothered me before.

Thirdly - Tiredness. I cant belive the lack of energy I have since having the implant fitted. Sometimes I can barely be bothered to walk up the 2 flights of stairs in my house. I used to be full of energy.

These have not gone un-noticed by my boyfriend. He often makes comments about my lack of energy, being more argumentative.

I had no idea the Implant was causing/could be causing all these things, and I was only informed of the positives by the doctor.

I feel alot more relieved that other girls are going through the same side effects. It has promted me to go and get the implant removed. I just want to get back to my old happy self again, and I feel like the implant dramatically changed me. Its great for preventing pregnancy as a contraceptive but the side effects for me are just not worth it :( x

1991babe said on 11 September 2011

Ever since getting the implant on 24/11/2010 it has been a nightmare! I mean it's great as of the fact you don't have the worry of forgetting to take the pill or having to meet a needle regularly but it has definitely not been suited for myself! I've put on two stone in weight (lost one stone now thanks to the gym! Lol.) But seriously I want to eat and still eat everything in sight it's like I can't control myself and if I do eat healthily all day I then come home and eat absolutely everything I can get my hands on! I've also not been able to deal with stress as well as I usually could I would then come home and eat everything! I've also been getting at people a LOT and I have no sex drive at all and for someone who is turning 21 soon this is upsetting and is causing problems for me and my partner which makes me so upset as I still love him so much and I am very much attracted to him, I would rather go to sleep or pig out than have sex! Before this I always wanted to have sex and after nearly a year of the implant I have decided to get it taken out in 3 days time, I also at first had really really bad cramps as if I was going to explode I was that bad I was coming home on the bus one day and had to curl up in a ball on the way home and hold in the tears and the bleeding was really heavy! I had to change a tampon every hour, I haven't had a period for three months now but this isn't the best contraceptive for me.

mini0rie said on 02 September 2011

Hi all, I'm 23 and had my implant in on 13th December 2010 an since then I've had constant period give or take about 3 weeks at random intervals,I've been very tired, emotional an argumentative at times. But overall I'm not pregnant which Is why me and my partner thought this was the best one, I'm rubbish at remembering the pill an after having my daughter in Dec 2009 we wanted somethin long term, we don't use any other forms of contraception and this seems to be doin the job, like previous comments it varies with different people but it also takes time to settle in which will also vary, I would recommend the implant an will be having a second if were not ready for another baby, for all the younger females, you don't need consent from parents, it is private but talkin to your mums/dads would probably be a good idea, they would probably be glad your thinking first.

Avaloo said on 31 August 2011

I've had the Implanon implant for about 2 years now. For the first year, maybe just over, I did not bleed at all. Then I had a light period for about 7 days; more spotting than an actaul period. Then for another year I was fine. However, about 3 weeks ago I got a period - still light but a period rather than spotting. This lasted about 7 days. Then at the weekend, I had a dark red/brown discharge and cramps. This eased up to spotting over the past few days but I am getting cramps again and still spotting.

Is this normal? I don't want to go to the doctor's just yet in case it's normal and I'll look silly and be wasting their time and my own.

I have also had a stomach bug and been rather run down over the past two weeks; is this connected or just unfortunate timing? I have had very tender breasts for about 2 months as well.

I googled abnormal bleeding and Chlamydia came up but I have been tested for that recently and it was negative. I have only had the one partner since that test (same partner as before the test) but am not currently having sex. Any ideas?

Jo1507 said on 30 August 2011

I want to get the impant but who do i make an appointment with? my usual doctor or the nurse??

jessica143S said on 22 August 2011

To all those who have switched from the combined pill to the implant!!

Im currently on the pill and it's not working for me because I keep missing it and I want something more long term. I've been on the pill for a year and tomorrow, i'm going to the family planning clinic to get the implant inserted.

It just so happens that yesterday was the last day of my pill pack so I can either take a break or carry on with the pill til tomorrow..
I dont know what to do, do I take a break or keep going so that when I get the implant i'm not on withdrawal? Please help?

SMartin6 said on 19 August 2011

I got the implant when I was fourteen because I didn't want an unplanned pregnancy. I've only ever been with one sexual partner and the implant seemed like my ideal form of contraception. I read up about the implant before having it fitted in and I was aware of the many side effects it could cause. It really does differ from person to person how it affects you. My mum had the implant and it affected her completely differently from me. I think I've had every single side effect it could possibly give you. I got it fitted in June 2010 and for the first month and a bit I was fine. I wasn't eating much and I seemed to have more of a sex drive, but I think that was down to the fact that I knew I was safe. But after that I started getting really severe mood swings and my depression really started to play up again. I was tired almost all of the time and had no motivation to doing anything, I had increased appetite, I was getting a new craving every month and I was spotting all of the time. I knew that the implant could make you feel like you were pregnant but I didn't think the side effects could be so strong. I wouldn't recommend you get the implant if you are already a grouchy or moody person, or if you have had problems with depression. I knew I was a moody person before I got it, but since then my moods have just got fifty times worst. It has caused me a lot of problems. I got really severe migraines which caused me dizzyness and nausea. There was one effect of the implant I did appreciate though; it made my boobs go up two sizes! I haven't put on weight anywhere else other than my boobs so that's a plus for me.

zoebear2003 said on 10 August 2011

I had my implant fitted in september 2010 as i was started to have problems with my pill and did not want the risk of getting pregnant. I have to say i have good and things to say about the implant. 1 week after i had the implant fitted i had a period for 7 days but this was very light. Since then i have not had bleeding and its been nearly a year now which has been heaven. Also it stopped the painful period pains and stomach cramps

I have noted some side affects though. I tend to get grumpy over the most silly things and at shout my other half for no reason. also sometimes i will just burst into tears (very very rarely) for no reason. I dont have as much sex drive as i use to which can sometimes be a pain.

I some times get headaches and feel tired but nothing to really get my down.

This may sound bad to some people but i used to have such painful and heavy periods that i couldnt move or do anything.

Im very lucky to have such a brilliant partner who is very understandable with how i can be sometimes as he looked up the symptons with me when i looked into getting the implant.

Please dont let the above put you off as this affects everyone is a different ways.

Hope this helps for anyone who is considering the implant

canitbedone said on 10 August 2011

iv had my implant in for 2 years now i think it is and for the last couple of months and iv been having a period like every other week, so i want it taken out, but will they put a new in straight away even if its not time for it to be changed?

GeeWhizz said on 05 August 2011

I've had my implant for a month and so far its all positive. My GP had a lot of experience in putting in implants so there was no pain and very little bruising when it was inserted.

I had some pain in my lower right abdomen for a few days after (a bit like mid cycle pain) but it wasn't painful enough to go back to my GP.

Since then no problems. I normally have very short heavy periods which can interupt my regular life and leave me feeling run down but this month I've just had some light spotting (although for longer than my normal period). I'd be quite happy if all my periods were like this, or stopped altogether.

There are always more negative than postive comments on websites like these but my advice is to make an appointment with your GP and talk about the different contraceptives available so you can make an informed decision. My GP went through all options and made recommendations but left the final decision to me.

As time goes by I hope to add more comments so other people who are thinking about getting an implant can get as much information as possible about it and any side effects.

kiwiwubbleu said on 01 August 2011

My experience of the implant has been really positive. I'm a student so I'm registered at an on-campus surgery where they're obviously very experienced at inserting implants and I actually felt nothing when it was inserted (only the local anaesthetic) I only had a bruise afterwards with absolutely no tenderness at all. I've had it for 18 months and had no periods at all, no bad period pains, no weight gain.. According to my flatmates, I was moody for a few days within the first month but apart from that I've been fine. I have found myself crying for no reason once or twice which I've read is a common side effect. I know that the implant can be very different for everyone but I would absolutely recommend it to anyone as it is a great long term contraceptive where you can live your life not worrying if you've taken your pill. One thing I would recommend is making sure your GP is experienced at inserting the implant as I have heard horror stories where a GP has never done one before and messed the whole thing up!

iheartchocolate said on 27 July 2011

Hey there, am quite glad I have found this too, it is nice to get some reassurance!

I got the implant in April 2010. For the first 4 months I experienced a mix of quite bad mood swings, irregular periods and random moments of crying about nothing! I was expecting that though and things calmed down after the initial few months.

I really recommend that people talk to a doctor or someone at a sex clinic beforehand - I did, and although it is a bit unnerving I am so glad I did. It prepared me for the initial reactions and it was a real comfort to chat to someone who could answer all my questions and more. Don't always judge things by what you read online!

I am a little concerned about one thing though, and I'd appreciate it if anyone has an answer to this! Once the first few months were past, my periods became regular and much lighter which was great as I usually get quite bad period pains. However, in the last month or two, my periods (while still being light) are lasting much longer than usual...is this normal? Could it be stress related as at that time I was going through a lot of exams at uni?

I'd appreciate any reassurance from anyone who may have gone through the same thing!

To those who are considering getting the implant, I would recommend talking to a professional and just being prepared for a few rocky months initially - it does get better and it is a real relief to not have to worry about taking pills etc.

rainbowstar21 said on 26 July 2011

I’m glad I have found this forum too to know I’m not alone!
I got the implant november last year. I was on the pill (cilest) for about 6/7 years before that. Have always suffered really bad period pain so thought I would look into alternative contraception.

At first I was taking the pill with the implant to try and control my periods because I was just constantly bleeding. My periods then regulated about jan time so I stopped taking the pill jan/feb time. At first I thought the implant was great – my periods had seemed to stop altogether and I didn’t have as bad period pain anymore!

It’s not until the break up between me and my boyfriend that I’ve realised what it’s been doing to me.
I was arguing with him for no reason or for ridiculous things that shouldn’t have bothered me. I would just feel so wound up and like my blood was boiling that I couldn’t control what I did or said. I would also get upset and cry about nothing or the simplest of things! It’s led to us breaking up and I’m heartbroken :(

Thinking back I can see a lot of side effects here which I didn’t realise could be related to the implant. I have IBS which has been pretty bad recently I get bad stomach pains, cramps and bloating which could actually be related to the implant. (was taking medicine for ibs but didn’t seem to be working)

Have also been quite a panicky and stressed person recently (I just blamed stress at work) had no idea that could be linked to the implant as well. Other things that may be linked are headaches, feeling pretty down and crying a lot for no reason, dizziness, & anxiety.
The one thing I have found is that I haven’t put on weight on the implant and after jan/feb time I didn’t get anymore bleeding. Have any others been like this?

Also what I don’t get is how they know what dose of hormones are going into your body from the implant? Mean we are not all the same size and what might be ok for one person could be a huge overdose to the next person.

clueless92 said on 25 July 2011

Hi just wanted to know what other medicines affect the implant or what other things I should be careful of?

clueless92 said on 25 July 2011

I recently got the implant but was too anxious on the day to ask the Dr anything and they wouldn't let my boyfriend in as it was a small room to ask anything and he's been very worried as he's alway been a bit of a hypochrondiac. Is there anything that would affect the implant other than epilepsy medication or St. Johns wart? Is there anything I should be careful about? We are planning on using condoms as well. Thank you.

TTT1901 said on 20 July 2011

I just wanted to add my experience with the implant. So many people have said negative things about it. It's different for all people, but I want to make sure that those unsure about it don't get completely put off by all the horror stories!

I have had the implant in for a year and a half. My boyfriend and I have been together for 5 years (I'm 23) and so we have tried out condoms, the pill and the implant. We used condoms to start with, and an "extra safe" one split. One morning-after-pill later, I went on the combined pill, but sometimes found it hard to deal with, and remember to bring everywhere with me, especially on holiday. I went to my local sexual health clinic and asked about the implant, and got it put in that day.

My experience: I hate needles, so didn't look, and it hurts slightly (nothing like giving blood! less than a blood test certainly). I had no bruise, and got rid of all the bad things from before: I have had no period since, no weight gain, no mood swings, no period or ovulation pain, no spots, no problems! The only change is my boobs have gone up a cup size so far. And are still growing. My bf and I are very happy about this side effect.

I would recommend the implant to anyone. It makes sex much more spontaneous and fun, and I dont have to worry about getting pregnant for 3 years. If after 6 months any side effects haven't disappeared, then get it taken out - and don't take no for an answer - its your choice and they have to abide by that. And if, like me, your periods stop and you stay on it because you find it good, take a pregnancy test every couple of months. I don't want to find out I'm pregnant 9 months in, and since I don't have periods tha'ts when I'd find out!

Good luck with whatever type of contraception you try. I would heavily recommend the implant. When mine is out I'm having another put in immediately - I love it!

clomas91 said on 06 July 2011

Hi i am 19 and have had the implant for approx a year in this time i have put on three and a half stone. i want to have it removed but when i went to my doctor was persuaded it wasnt the implant that had put the weight on it was a change in lifestlye! if anthing ym lifestyle is better! can i demand to have it taken out? or am i able to go to a walk in centre or anywhere like that to have it removed, i feel my doctor fobs me off and i really want it gone, i havent had a period for a year and feel this is no good for my health i had no problems with the pill previously and just want rid of this weight help!

ggabse said on 03 July 2011

hello i'm 14 years old girl and i was thinking about getting this implant but i don't know if i can get it without parent permission so please anyone if you know the answer please tell me
thank you xxx

bb1983 said on 17 June 2011

To 1990rach1990,

Don't worry about the pain of getting it taken out. It's really not bad at all - less than the pain of having it put in. Just book an appointment with your GP and tell them you are booking to have an implant removed (as only certain people will be trained to do this). When you go in they will give you a local anaesthetic injection (this will hurt a little bit - just like a normal injection) and then you shouldn't be able to feel anything. They will make a tiny cut (about half a cm) next to your implant and then will pull it out. Obviously it might be more painful for some people than others but it's never been painful for me. Your arm will be a bit sore for a few days after but it just feels a bit like you've got a bruise - a bit sore but not really painful.

I have been on the implant for nine years now and had it replaced yesterday - taken out of one arm and a new one put in the other arm (they do this if you've had more than one in one arm to reduce the build up of scar tissue). I was in and out of the doctors in 20 mins and didn't feel any pain at all apart from the two anaesthetic injections. Now, the next morning, both arms are a bit sore (as the anaesthetic has worn off) but the one where I had it taken out just feels like I've got a little bruise there, and the one where I had it put in is a bit more painful but still not really bad at all.

I hope this helps put your mind at rest.

However, I did experience similar problems to you when I first started on the implant - no periods and then long heavy periods, but for me this settled down after the first year or so (and didn't get worse when I got it replaced each time).

I've now been using this for nine years and am now on my 4th implant. My periods now are normal - regular and quite light and I don't get period pains like I used to before I had the implant. Different things effect different people in different ways, but for me this is the ideal method of contraception.

User565488 said on 17 June 2011

Hi everyone!

I have had the implant, i got it out in on the 6-4-10 so for 1 year 3 months.

At first it was the best thing since sliced bread, now id rather had a baby than have this. Its horrible and the worst thing that i have ever done.

Although everyone is effected in different ways, i must be one of those unlucky ones.

I have been experiencing some, well most of the things that other have been going through.

In the last 7 months i have had 7 days off my period! I have 1 day off every month. I have the most worst mood swings ever causing me to be very very violent and before i would never hurt a fly. Also the pain is unbearable, its like being in labor or actually having a baby.

When i consulted my doctor about my pains i actually had the pain happen as i went to get up and my doctor then realized the pain i was having a fully grown male adult would not be able to stand the pain.

I want to get it taken out but i've been told it is so so so painfull and im actually really scared does any one know what the pain is like getting it taken out? please answer xx\

Thanks Guys xxx

LQ1978 said on 14 June 2011

I had the implant fitted in September last year (9 months ago) because the pill made me put on weight and I was told by my GP the implant was the best way to avoid the weight gain.

I have since then put on 2 stone in weight and its much harder to persuade someone to take it out than put it in.

Has anyone else experienced the weight problem?

User290254 said on 13 June 2011

This has been the best thing ever! I cant take the combined pill due to my migraines and the mini pill i bled on and off and hated it, so I thought id give it a try. I've had it in for 4 months now and no bleeding at all, my migraines have not got worse or better, but not getting worse was great. I'm on slimming world after having a baby and have lost 9lb so far so I dont think you put on weight and there has been no evidence to show that this does cause weight gain, and my moods are exactly the same. I love that it stops ovulation as I had really bad ovulation pain but this has gone. I did hurt a little when I had it put in, more the needle to numb it and I had a great big bruise that went away after a week, but it's great, I love it, It'll last until after my wedding in 2013 and I can have it taken out in time for my next baby. I know that different people have different reactions to contraceptive, but I say give it a chance xxx

bertie94 said on 10 June 2011

I had my implant put in on the 9th May 2011 and it was the best thing I have ever done! Before deciding I wanted it done, I came on websites researching about it and some of the comments really do put you off - don't listen to them! The implant re-acts differently to different people.

Booking the appointment is very easy. You can go to your GP who will give you an appointment to have it done by a nurse or you can go to your local sexual health clinic (I went to my GP) It was not embarrasing in the slightest and they made me feel very at ease. Even when I went for the procedure, I was worrying about it - But once they start its completely painless, I didn't feel a thing!

I haven't experienced any side effects whatsoever. The only thing I did get, about 2 weeks afterwards was a water infection (whether this was due to the implant, i'm not sure!)

Having the implant makes sex so much easier aswell. I was previously on the pill and I was crap at taking it! Me and my boyfriend do still use condoms but it's nice knowing that the implant protects you in the case of not using one.

Just remember, don't let the bad experiences on these comments put you off - The implant is different in each case.

I hope this helps + hope more people go on the implant!

AnBan said on 07 June 2011

I got the implant 9months ago after an early miscarriage. I had heavy bleeding for longer periods to begin with then at the start of may and mid may I had bleeding (spotting) for about four days and was very nausous. The bleeding wasn't heavy enough for a tampon etc. Now Im just exhausted alot of the time, nausous and have horrible mood swings - does anyone know is this because of the implant?! So many different comments here, Im not sure whether I should get it removed if thats what causing me to feel rubbish all the time!

Superstar123 said on 07 June 2011

I'd just like to say to anyone who has the bleeding between...go to the doctor and ask to be put on the pill as well, this way the pill stops the bleeding and then you have a normal time of month

Superstar123 said on 06 June 2011

I've had the implant for 7 months. Biggest mistake ever! I got it put it after a termination because at the time it seemed like the easiest option. Wrong!

The first three months were full of irregular bleeding so I went to the local sexual health clinic and told them I wanted it removed due to this reason and various mood swings. The doctor said it was too early but put me on the contraceptive pill and told me to take it for three months straight The bleeding between periods stopped straight away and when I got to the end of the final pack I had a period. Now its a week later and as the packs are all gone the irregular bleeding has started again! This means I'm going to have to go back again and do the same thing.

I wouldn't recommend this contraception to anyone. It has made me paranoid and into a nasty person with my boyfriend without meaning to be. I want the implant out but I know they will pressure me into keeping it in by saying it won't be cost effective if removed. Helpp! :(

qwerty_smurph said on 02 June 2011

i have hand my inplant just over 5 months and i love it, so does my boyfriend we have been together for 7 years and both of us have never slept with anyone else so i know there are no chance of std.

ever since i got the inplant my periods ave stopped which s a relief as i got the worst pains ever. i have just started to get spotting but iv been told that it will stop.
i would recommend it to any one and my room mate actually did get one after i told her about it and she has been the same as me with the no periods. i know every one is different but i do strongly recommend it

Nim_Nyan_11 said on 01 June 2011

I decided to get the implant to make my "first time" special, I thought it would be more romantic that way...

For the first month it worked well for me, I had a bit of period pain but nothing compared to what I would usually get, and no blood. Everything was fine until exactly 4 weeks after I had the implant fitted, that day I started a really heavy period which lasted a whole week and it's been on/off ever since (about 3 or 4 weeks now)

Sure, I still have time to get used to it properly but it's the emotional effects that are getting to me more; my boyfriend has told me how much more argumentative I've been and I get upset about things easier than before but that's nothing compared to the huge sexual need I've been experiencing, it was large before but I can't think of anytime recently when I haven't been "in the mood". It's awful, I'm always on my period but never wanna just curl up in bed like I used to... It really distracts me because it's always on my mind.

I haven't read anywhere else that this is the case, so I don't think it makes anyone else get like this... So apart from the emotional stuff, it's been bearable, I'd still recommend people try it if it fits their lifestyle the best, I don't think anything else would suit me... But I might have to consider options if things don't change for me.

Good luck to anyone thinking of getting the implant, I hope you get on with it (:

User559469 said on 28 May 2011

Hi
Can anyone help?
I have had my implant in for 5 months now, ever since my first period (about 4 weeks after having it inserted) I have experienced constant light spotting, which is starting to get me down. Over the last couple of weeks I have also started to feel sick at least once a day and I feel really emotional all the time.
I am not sure whether to see my GP or not?

amy1992 said on 27 May 2011

I had my implant put in September 2010, and I looked at this page for patient reviews before having it done, which to be honest was no help. If you are thinking of having the implant, you won't know how you are going to react to it before having it done.

I found my periods became more frequent, but extremely light and not hurt. My sister reacted completely differently to it, having no periods at all! But you can also have longer, heavier ones..

It depends on each individual how you will react to it. I also found it didn't hurt at all, but if you don't like needles this probably isn't the contraceptive for you, as my friend was petrified when she had hers and found it hurt a lot more.

If considering the implant, you must look at all the side effects known, and think if you would be ok if any of these happened to you, as you won't really know until you've had it done.

It's been great for me as I now don't have to worry about other contraceptive, knowing this is going to protect against pregnancy - a relief for myself, my boyfriend and my mum!

Also - apparently it hurts having it taken out. As this is my first one I don't know how I will react to that. But surely the thought of being protected from pregnancy for three years is enough to counterract this - and any side effects that happen!

jadep91 said on 23 May 2011

hi, i have had my implant for about 2 and a half years, since i got it in i have had virtually no periods the odd one now and again, i suffer from terrible headaches i have gone from a size 8 to a 16 then down to a 12 i have bad mood swings that my fiancée hates but good news is no babies which is what its there for dont know if its worth all the side affects though. a good thing is my boobs have grown from a B to a DD so am happy about that.

Melanie2011 said on 22 May 2011

I am currently on the implant and i think its great, if you keep forgetting your pill don't continue to push your luck and get on something more safe. There is no correlation between getting the implant and wiegh gain, thats poeple just gaining wieght normally and just blaming it on their implant rather than their eating or lack of exercise. Also if your worriesd about your periods afterwards just ask your doctor for the pill and that will control your peroids for the first few months.

hellyboo said on 21 May 2011

Hello!

After reading so many negative comments about the implant I feel stunned! I've had my implant for half a year while I've been working away. I decided it would be the right choice for now on a total whim before I left - so much so I didn't even have a trial on the chemical beforehand (which everyone should have and will give you a 3 week insight into how it might affect you).

Anyway, you've all read numerous identical accounts of the procedure, mine was the same. Caused a long period (about a month v. light) initially but has been completely amazing since! Haven't had a single period since.

I haven't had any of the symptoms above and if I had read the comments on here before I got the implant I would have probably changed my mind - but it suits me perfectly and I don't have a bad word to say on it.

I recommend to people considering the implant that it is likely people posting on here are unhappy with their implant and have been on this site to try and help them clarify if the problem is caused by the implant. So I'm trying to add a balanced perspective.

I say go for it! Without a doubt it's been the best decision regarding contraception I've ever made and remember, if it doesn't suit you just get it removed. No doctor has the right to refuse you that, although they may recommend perusing it in case your issues settle. I will probably continue getting the implant replaced as long as possible.

(P.S. Just don't go as crazy as me and have so much sex due to no periods with your long term boyfriend who you haven't seen for 6 months you give yourself honeymoon cystitis instead) ...

hellyboo said on 21 May 2011

Hello!

After reading so many negative comments about the implant I feel stunned! I've had my implant for half a year while I've been working away. I decided it would be the right choice for now on a total whim before I left - so much so I didn't even have a trial on the chemical beforehand (which everyone should have and will give you a 3 week insight into how it might affect you).

Anyway, you've all read numerous identical accounts of the procedure, mine was the same. Caused a long period (about a month v. light) initially but has been completely amazing since! Haven't had a single period since.

I haven't had any of the symptoms above and if I had read the comments on here before I got the implant I would have probably changed my mind - but it suits me perfectly and I don't have a bad word to say on it.

I recommend to people considering the implant that it is likely people posting on here are unhappy with their implant and have been on this site to try and help them clarify if the problem is caused by the implant. So I'm trying to add a balanced perspective.

I say go for it! Without a doubt it's been the best decision regarding contraception I've ever made and remember, if it doesn't suit you just get it removed. No doctor has the right to refuse you that, although they may recommend perusing it in case your issues settle. I will probably continue getting the implant replaced as long as possible.

(P.S. Just don't go as crazy as me and have so much sex due to no periods with your long term boyfriend who you haven't seen for 6 months you give yourself honeymoon cystitis instead) ...

ELWZRSTN said on 19 May 2011

Date inserted: September 2009 (18 at the time).

Procedure: Took about 10/15 minutes because I was terrified. Anesthetic hurt as did the insertion of the implant. Only had minor bruising afterwards, nothing major.

Pros:
- Don't have to worry about any other forms of contraception. (Having never been on anything before the implant was my first choice).

- Lasts 3 years but you can have it taken out at any time if you wish to get pregnant.

- I've lost just over half a stone since having it in.

Cons:
- My periods are longer and heavier. Previously they lasted around 3 days and only came once a month.
Now they are every 2 weeks. Extremely heavy. Unbelievably painful.

- Major mood swings. I find the slightest thing irritates me and I get in a mood for no reason. I also find I want to cry yet theres no reason for me to do so.

- Sex drive varies. Some days I can be as keen as a beaver and others I never want it again.

Overall: Its different for everyone, however I wouldn't recommend it. This is simply because of how it affects your periods. I definitely won't be having another one inserted when this is taken out.

abby2011 said on 12 May 2011

hi im on my 2nd implant which i had renewed feb just gone,my 2nd actually was very painful wen it was fitted,i found everytime i moved my arm in a certain way or lent on it one of the ends of the implant would stick through my skin and the pain would last awhile ...bit like a shock feeling.i ended up making my arm stiff from not dare moving it..in the end i went bak to my doctor who then explained that due to new inserting procedures that the implant had too be nearer to the skins surface,he said i wasnt the only person to complain about it but i should try and see how it is in acouple of weeks, well i still have the implant in it doesnt hurt anymore but i still have the side afeects which i have always had since my 1st implant.
i have gained so much weight .which is horrible seeing i had lost an awful lot before i decided to have an implant,i have mood swings,feel tired alot and i have noticed my hair has thinned too ,my periods have stopped as they did the first time round but wen they do come back they are very heavy..its everyones choice to have an implant and not everyones going to feel the same about side affects but if i wasnt so worried that i would fall pregnant again then id try something else as contraception but due to my age my doctor wont give me the pill again and im too young to be put forward to be sterlised.i hope my moans and groans about the implant havnt put anyone off but if theres one thing i can really say is that if you dont want to bang on the weight then be weiry of that side affect of the implant. oh and my sex drive has gone right down

shinyspade said on 11 May 2011

I got the implant at the start of February this year, I had been taking microgynon for 4 months previous to this but hated having to remember to take a pill the same time every day. My GP told me the implant was a better option so I decided to give it a go.

I really, really, really wish I hadn't. I finished my pack of pills in an attempt to keep some normality to my period but since then I have had non stop bleeding, sometimes heavy sometimes light, but there has not been one single day I have been blood free.

My sex life has suffered greatly, I think I went a full month withholding sex from my boyfriend because I felt awful all the time.

I am always tired, in a bad mood, have bad skin now and have gained a lot of weight. I no longer feel good about myself and am so sick of all the bleeding.

Apparently the side affects should settle down a bit at the 6 month mark? I will be going back to the pill when I have this one remove, I would much rather take a pill everyday and be happy than have to deal with the misery of this thing.

ttkz said on 11 May 2011

i had my implant inplanted 28th may 2010 as i was advised by my consultant to stop using the injection. before the injection i was on the pill from the age of 15 to 19 which is when i went on the injection after finding out i suffer from endometriosis. I tried to stop the injection before and went on the pill but non of them seem to work for my body. i was then told about the implant and have had a terrile experience from day 1. Inserting the implant was not as straight forward as i was told. my arm was numb and the doctor tried to insert the implant which we thought hadnt worked so had to get another from the chemist. Tried it the second time on the same day but again thought that didnt work and then tried the 3rd time and thought that didnt work so my doctor advised to have the injection for the time being so i was still protected. over the weekend i was very ill and my doctor called me everyday to check my progress. I received a call from the head of family planning/gynae to see him urgently to only find out that not only i had the injection but i had all three implants in my arm. i had to have 2 removed and one was left under my instruction. i was still ill for months after as i still had the injection in my system (overload). The whole idea for the implant was to stop me from bleeding but i keep bleeding. Ive been taking the pill on top of my implant to stop the bleeding but this has not worked and i have been seeing the gp and the hospital for months. Ive gained weight with this as i was a size 8 and have jumped to a size 12. my sex drive is 0 because the way this makes me feel. if anyone else has gone through this and has advice please let me know or any other doctor because i feel like im talking to a brick wall. I cant go back on the injection as that was causing to many other health issues due to taking it for so long. i need the bleeding to stop as it is causing me endometriosis problems.

Txx said on 10 May 2011

REPLY TO Kiwiki on 30 April 2011

hi well I've had my implant in for 2 years now and have been with my bf for nearly a year and half, and we don't use any precautions apart from that, and i haven't got pregnant so far so all good. so i'm sure you will be fine it's 99% percent effective but everyone's body's different, But i am having the implant took out on the14th of this month. because my bleeding is irregular and always very heavy. it also gives me bad Mood swings and a bit of Depression. I shall be going to take the pill instead and shall keep you posted in a through months to let you all know if everything has gone back to normal like before i got the implant inserted.

User553377 said on 08 May 2011

my girlfriend had her impland removed a few months ago. she hasnt yet had a period, we have taken a few pregnancy tests and they said she was negative. any ideas why she wouldnt have had a period yet?

angellea69 said on 04 May 2011

I'm back with another update on how I'm finding the implant!

Well, everything is still going well 8 weeks after I had it fitted. I had no sign of a period for the first 5 or 6 weeks, but for the past fortnight I've had some light bleeding and spotting - nothing at all heavy, with no cramps or anything. It's stopped now, so if that's gonna be my periods I'm fine with that!

My mood has been absolutely fine - no anxiety, depression or weight gain like I had on the pill. I still love having the implant!

Nim_Nyan_11 said on 03 May 2011

I'm a 15 year old girl and I'm in a stable relationship. Me and my boyfriend have been together for almost 2 years now and earlier this year we decided to take things further. I did a lot of research and went to go see a contraceptive expert before deciding that the implant was the best choice for me.

I've had the implant in for nearly a month now and I haven't suffered from a single side effect yet... I may have stopped having periods but that's not for certain right now.

I just want to reassure anyone reading these comments who is thinking of getting the implaint in; not everyone gets side effects. Infact, people who are posting messages about side effects on here are part of a small proportion of women with the implant. If it works well for you, you're not really going to post a comment about it on the nhs website are you? The comments on here were the only thing putting me off the implant but I'm glad I didn't get put off completely.

For me, the implant was painful putting in but that may be because I have a phobia of needles and they have to numb your arm first. But after I had it put in the bruising disappeared within 2 weeks and everything is fine unless you hit my arm hard.

So good luck to anyone getting the implant and I hope it goes aswell for you as it has done so far for me :)

stormolina said on 01 May 2011

I had the implant fitted in March and i dont use any other precautions. We have had no issues in terms of pregnancy but my periods last between 2-3 weeks, does anyone else have this problem?
I knew to expect irregularities but wasnt expecting to live my life with one big period!!!

natashald said on 30 April 2011

Im 22 years old and had my first implant nearly 3 months ago. Since then i haven't stopped bleeding, some days worse especially if i'm running, walking or generally standing for long. I bleed even more when I have sex with my partner. Is this normal?

Kiwiki said on 30 April 2011

Hi, I'm 18 and have had the contraceptive bar for 6 months now. Since I got it my boyfriend and I have also been using a condom, I know that the bar is very safe and so after much talking we'd like to try without a condom, But before we do I just wnt to ask someone who has the bar but uses no other form of contraception how thy are getting on by doing so? and also ask a very silly question, is it ok for him to stay in while coming? any reply would be much appreciated :)

ayla143 said on 25 April 2011

I've had the implant now for 3 years and am just about to have a new one fitted.

I was useless on the pill and hated the thought of having injections every 3 months. Its been great to be able to forget about it

There is a tiny scare on my arm from when it was fitted but its hardly noticable.

The only other issue I've had is with my periods. They are still very irregular, sometimes I can go months without them and then have a heavy one buts its nothing major.

I reccomend this to the forgetful needle phobes :)

funsmiley said on 12 April 2011

hi,
im 18 and i have had the implant now for about a month.
i had never really liked the thought of having a piece of plastic under my skin but after the 2 incidents i felt there was no better solution.

about 2 years ago the condom i was using split and i had to take the emergency pill. after that i was put on the pill and i hated it. it made me really sick so i stopped using it me and my boyfriend broke up so i didn't need it anyway. we got back together a few months later and continued to use a condom with no problems until a month ago, the condom we were using got stuck inside me and i tried and tried but couldn't get it out obviously i was no longer protected. so i went to my family planning clinic to have it removed after that the nurse went through some options with me and told me about the implant i decided it sounded OK and a week later i had it fitted.
its not a long procedure. you arm is numbed with an anesthetic and the implant is fitted.
a bandage is worn for 24hours. my arm felt bruised and swollen but nothing major. i spotted and still continue to as i have only had it a month obviously my body is still adjusting.

so far so good!!! it really is useful if your in a relationship as you dont have to worry though using condoms is still recommended to protect yourself against STIs. also you dont have to worry about taking pills everyday.

it can be unfitted anytime if you decide its not for you. your menstrual cycle will return to the way it was before you had it fitted.

i hope this was helpful!!! thanks for reading. :)

Amzi1992 said on 10 April 2011

Hey,
I'm 18 and have had the implant for about 3 months now. I feel pregnant around january but wanted an abortion, after my first visit to the hospital I had a bad miscarriage. It was such a horrible experience that I vowed not to put myself through that so that's when I got the implant.

The procedure was a doddle. So quick but I felt uncomfortable as a few nurses wanted to watch the procedure. Like others have mentioned, it was bruised and a little bit swollen for about a month but now all that's left is a tiny scar.

Considering I've only had it a few months I think the implant is great. I haven't been on the pill so I can't really compare. I chose the implant because my relationship with my boyfriend started to get more serious, it was something we disuissed and agreed on.

I have found that I have light bleeding nearly everyday so far, some days it can get heavier and other days there is nothing. I guess its my body still adjusting to it but I'm still unsure. Any suggestions on this?

I've started loosing weight which is great but I'm sure whether to blame the gym or the implant. Since having it, I've felt a bit moody but it doesn't last long and I have cravings for chocolate frequently but deny myself it because I'm noticing the effects of loosing weight :) !

At the beginning , before the miscarriage, friends were all recommending the pill but I knew I would forget to take them. I'm glad I chose the implant as it gives you peace of mind for 3 years and spontaneous sex is always a plus point. I would highly recommend it but then again, its your personal choice and everyone might react to it differently :)
xxx

angellea69 said on 04 April 2011

I'm 26 with no children and I'm in a long-term, stable relationship. I had my impant inserted 5 weeks ago and although it's early days, everything had been fantastic.

I am absolutely terrified of needles and pain, so the worst part of the whole thing was the insertion. The local anaesthetic did hurt, but after that I couldn't feel a thing. I didn't look because I would've fainted, but the whole thing took less than 10 minutes. I had a small bruise before I even left the clinic, but I bruise extremely easily. The bruise developed into quite a large and vivid mark but it faded after a couple of weeks.

I had the implant inserted during the final days of my period and I haven't had one since! Major plus point! I just hope that this continues.

My mood has been absolutely fine - I had problems with bad anxiety, depression and migraines on the pill and everything had been brilliant so far.

The best thing, apart from the lack of periods, has been the effect on my sex life. It has made everything so much more spontaneous, as we were using condoms before. As a result we're having more sex. Always a good thing :)

So far I love having an implant. I also love the fact that my fertility will return to normal as soon as it is removed; I hope to have children in the future so this is great.

I'll report back in a few weeks with another update :) x

K_Lee said on 04 April 2011

Hello Ladies,

I got my implant fitted in September and i didnt have a bad word to say about it but in the last couple of months i have suffered dramatic weight gain. I used to be on the pill and i never put on weight i was a healthy size 10-12 but now i have to buy clothes up to a 14! Not happy with this at all. I went back to my GP and they advised me to get it taken out.

little wong said on 28 March 2011

hi i had my implant put in on the 5th of march 2009.
i had no problems when i first got it in for the first year then after a year when i got into a relationship i started feeling emotional and kept having mood swings but not to bad. in the end my and my partener at the time split up and i had a couple of other boyfriends after that but nothing serious, i had sex with someone and i started bleeding really bad during sex. i went to the clinic and the told me to do a test incase i had a STI but it came back clear. after that i got with my new partner and the second time we had sex i started bleeding again only for about 5 mins though. we have been together just over 6 months now and moved in together but i seem to be having really bad mood swings lately for nothing and getting all emotional, i have had it in just over 2 years and since 24th december i have been bleeding every couple of weeks and keep getting water infections, i went to my clinic to see if i could get it took out but t

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