Contraceptive Implant & Periods: The Effects on the Menstrual Cycle

contraceptive implant and periods, effects on the menstrual cycle

The contraceptive implant is an effective method to prevent pregnancy, but it can also affect your menstrual cycle. If you are considering using an implant, it is important to understand how it may affect your period

What is a contraceptive implant?

A contraceptive implant is a long-lasting method of birth control that is inserted under the skin of the forearm by a trained healthcare professional. It is a small rod-shaped chip (3 cm long) that contains progesterone, a hormone that prevents ovulation, making pregnancy impossible. The implant is effective upon insertion and has a service life of 5 years. It is considered a reliable and effective method to prevent pregnancy.

The use of this micro-progestogen makes it possible to prevent pregnancy by blocking ovulation and modifying the cervical mucus, making it difficult for sperm to pass to the uterus. For most women, the use of a subcutaneous contraceptive implant will have an impact on both contraception and menstruation.

How does the contraceptive implant affect periods?

Contraceptive implants are intended to reduce the frequency and duration of menstrual bleeding. It is therefore common for women with an implant to have irregular cycles or no longer have periods. Some women may have light bleeding for a few months after the implant is inserted, and then the periods will go away completely.

It is important to note that theno periods (amenorrhea) does not guarantee that a woman is not pregnant, so it is important to continue to use an effective method of contraception and to take a pregnancy test if in doubt.

What are the effects of a contraceptive implant on menstruation?

The effects of a contraceptive implant on menstruation are varied. It is common for women to have questions about the possible side effects of the contraceptive implant, such as weight gain, the appearance of acne, increased menstrual flow or absence of menstruation.

In some women, periods may be slightly irregular or heavier. In other women, they may stop altogether. Menstrual cycle changes are usually mild and do not last long. Some contraceptive implants may also cause more frequent or heavier menstrual bleeding during the first few weeks or months of use.

Depending on the woman using it, the contraceptive implant can have different effects on periods:

  • Personalized light or irregular bleeding: some users may have more frequent or lighter bleeding than usual, or bleeding that comes and goes.
  • Personalized shorter or longer rules: the implant can shorten the duration of periods or make them last longer.
  • Personalized lighter rules: the implant may reduce the amount of blood passed during menstruation.
  • Personalized more painful periods: some users may have abdominal cramps or more intense pain during their periods.
  • Absence of rules (amenorrhea) : some users may stop having periods after using the implant for a while.

Are there any risks associated with contraceptive implants?

As with all other birth control methods, there are risks associated with using a contraceptive implant. These risks include complications during insertion or removal of the implant, infections, irregular bleeding and abdominal pain. There are also specific risks, such as migration of the implant, perforation of the uterus or displacement of the implant which can make it difficult to remove it.

It is important to note that these side effects are usually mild and temporary. However, it is important to discuss the risks and benefits of using the contraceptive implant with your doctor before making a decision about whether this method is suitable for your personal situation.

Should I remove my implant in case of irregular periods?

It is essential to discuss with your doctor when you experience any adverse effects in the use of a contraceptive implant. In some cases, it may be necessary to remove the implant to resolve these issues.

However, this irregular bleeding may be temporary and improve over time. It is therefore important to consult your doctor before making a decision to remove the implant to assess the personal situation and the associated risks.

The menstrual cycle is controlled by hormones. The contraceptive implant sends constant doses of hormones through the body, which prevents ovulation and therefore menstruation. However, you may still have light or irregular bleeding while you have the implant. 

What are the other alternatives to the contraceptive implant?

There are many other birth control methods used to prevent pregnancy besides the contraceptive implant. The most commonly used methods include hormonal and non-hormonal birth control:

  • La contraceptive pill : a hormonal method that involves taking tablets containing hormones that prevent ovulation.
  • Le condom: a means that protects against sexually transmitted diseases in addition to preventing pregnancy.
  • La sterilization: a permanent procedure that prevents fertilization by blocking the fallopian tubes or removing the testicles.
  • Le diaphragm: a physical barrier that is inserted into the vagina to block sperm.
  • La morning after pill which is used after unprotected intercourse to prevent pregnancy.
  • The pose of a IUD ou intrauterine device (IUD) which is a small T-shaped object that is inserted into the uterus to prevent pregnancy.

Each method has its advantages and disadvantages and it is important to discuss with your doctor to know which method of contraception is adapted to your personal situation.

Some methods do not protect against sexually transmitted diseases, so it is essential to combine methods for complete protection.

What protection is used with a contraceptive implant?

As the contraceptive implant can affect the menstrual cycle, it is possible that the periods become less abundant or that they stop completely. In this case, the period panties can be a good choice to manage periods comfortably.

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The articles on the site contain general information which may contain errors. These articles should in no way be considered as medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. If you have any questions or doubts, always make an appointment with your doctor or gynecologist.

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