Disrupted periods
Your periods may change significantly while using a contraceptive implant. Around 20% of people using the implant will have no bleeding, but almost 50% will have infrequent or prolonged bleeding. Bleeding patterns often remain irregular.
If the bleeding is a problem speak to your GP, nurse or sexual health service for advice.
Other side effects
Other side effects that some people report are:
headaches
acne
feeling sick (nausea)
breast tenderness
mood changes
These side effects usually stop after the first few months. If you have prolonged or severe headaches or other side effects, tell your doctor.
Benefits of using the implant
Some benefits of the contraceptive implant are that:
it works for 3 years
it does not interrupt sex
the implant is an option if you can’t use contraception containing oestrogen such as the combined pill, contraceptive patch or vaginal ring
you don’t have to remember to take a pill every day
it’s safe to use while you are breastfeeding
your fertility should return to normal as soon as the implant is removed
after the contraceptive implant has been inserted, you should be able to carry out normal activities
Risks of the implant
Sometimes the area of skin where the implant has been fitted can become infected. If this happens, the area will be cleaned and may be treated with antibiotics.
