Set It and Don't Sweat It Contraception: Is the Birth Control Implant Right for Me?
Managing your reproductive health has never been easier with the birth control implant. Choosing the right form of contraception for you is critical, and you need the best and latest information to make the best decision.
Board-certified OB/GYN Daniel Esteves, MD, in Lawrenceville, Georgia, is a birth control specialist who can discuss the various contraception options available to you and how to choose the best one that fits your needs. The birth control implant is discreet and effective, and you can set it and forget it — making it one of the most popular options for women with busy lifestyles.
How does the birth control implant work?
The birth control implant is a small, plastic rod approximately the size of a matchstick that your doctor implants under the skin in your upper arm.
It releases a synthetic hormone called progestin into your bloodstream at a steady rate. Progestin thickens your cervical mucus, making it difficult for sperm to reach your uterus and fertilize an egg. Additionally, it thins the lining of your uterus so it’s less receptive to implantation. The implant also inhibits ovulation, which prevents your ovaries from releasing eggs.
This combination means the birth control implant is highly effective at preventing pregnancy, with a success rate of over 99%.
How long does it last?
One of the biggest advantages of the birth control implant is its long-lasting nature. It’s a type of long-acting reversible contraceptive (LARC), which means it provides continuous pregnancy prevention for years and can be stopped at any time.
The arm implant eliminates the need for daily or monthly contraceptive measures. Depending on the brand, the implant can last for three to five years.
Getting the birth control implant requires only one simple office visit. Dr. Esteves places it into your arm; after that, it doesn't require any maintenance or frequent visits to his office.
Is the birth control implant right for you?
Many birth control options are available, and Dr. Esteves can explain them so you can make informed decisions about your reproductive health. He reviews your medical history and other factors and recommends the best options. Below are some of the leading factors you should consider.
Long-term option
The birth control implant lasts for a few years, so it’s great if you’re not planning to have children for a while. Patients who prefer more flexibility or want to conceive sooner should consider other options.
Hormonal contraception side effects
The birth control implant releases progestin, which in some patients can cause a range of side effects like irregular menstrual bleeding, headaches, or mood swings. The hormones affect every person differently, so sharing any symptoms you experience with our team is important.
Convenience is a key consideration
The implant is a convenient contraception option — once you set it, you don’t sweat it. Patients enjoy great protection against pregnancy without the hassles of remembering a daily pill or barrier method of contraception.
The birth control implant is simple, effective, long-lasting, reversible, and convenient. Schedule a contraception consultation today by phone or online with Dr. Esteves to learn more.