Advantages and disadvantages

Advantages:

  • it works for 3 years
  • it doesn’t interrupt sex
  • it’s an option if you can’t use oestrogen-based contraception, such as the combined contraceptive pill, contraceptive patch or vaginal ring
  • it’s safe to use while you’re breastfeeding
  • your fertility will return to normal as soon as the implant is taken out
  • it may reduce heavy periods or painful periods

Disadvantages:

  • you may experience temporary side effects during the first few months, like headaches, nausea, breast tenderness and mood swings
  • your periods may be irregular or stop altogether
  • you may get acne or your acne might get worse
  • you’ll need a small procedure to have it fitted and removed
  • it doesn’t protect you against sexually transmitted infections (STIs), so you may need to use additional contraception (such as condoms) as well
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