Implanon: long-lasting contraception and the side effects you should know

If you've found daily birth control pills to be a burden, you might be considering other options. Implanon is a contraceptive implant that involves inserting a small rod into your upper arm, which steadily releases hormones for about 3 years, maintaining contraception without daily pill intake.

What is Implanon?

Implanon is a method where a thin, matchstick-sized rod is inserted under the skin on the inner side of your upper arm. The rod continuously releases progestin-based hormones, suppressing ovulation and altering cervical mucus to achieve its contraceptive effect.

Key features are summarized as follows:

• Lasts for approximately 3 years with a single insertion
• No need to take pills daily or remember to carry them
• Short procedure time, performed in an outpatient setting
• Can be removed when desired, and pregnancy can be planned after removal

In the clinic, many patients who frequently forget to take their pills or have irregular lifestyles that make daily, consistent pill-taking difficult inquire about Implanon.

Who Can Benefit from Implanon?

Implanon is not suitable for everyone, but it is often considered an option in the following situations:

• Those desiring long-term, stable contraception
• Those who find it difficult to take birth control pills daily
• Those considering contraception after childbirth
• Those without immediate pregnancy plans

While it is known to be usable during breastfeeding, its suitability may vary depending on individual health conditions, medications being taken, and medical history, so consultation before the procedure is necessary.

For contraception, it's crucial that the method not only be effective but also align well with your lifestyle and body condition. The comfort and side effects experienced can vary from person to person, even with the same method.

What Are the Most Frequently Asked Side Effects?

The most common questions during Implanon consultations are about side effects. As it is a hormonal method, changes in the body can occur, and the following changes are typically reported:

• Irregular bleeding or changes in bleeding patterns
• Changes in menstrual cycle or flow
• Reduced menstrual flow or amenorrhea (absence of menstruation)
• Changes in weight or general condition

Among these, changes in bleeding patterns are relatively common. However, the pattern and degree of these changes vary greatly from person to person, so not all changes indicate a problem.

Why Does Irregular Bleeding Occur?

In the early stages after insertion, the body adapts to the hormones, which can lead to brown spotting, irregular bleeding, or prolonged bleeding. Most cases stabilize gradually as the body adjusts, but if bleeding persists for a long time, becomes heavy, or is accompanied by pain, it's advisable to seek medical attention to check for other causes. If the bleeding pattern feels different from usual, it may be helpful to examine it in conjunction with Menstrual Disorder Care.

How Is the Procedure Performed?

Implanon insertion is a relatively simple outpatient procedure.

1. Local anesthesia is applied to the insertion site on the inner upper arm.
2. The rod is inserted under the skin using a specialized applicator.
3. After insertion, the site is checked, and the procedure is concluded.

The procedure itself does not take long, and in some cases, it can be performed after a same-day consultation. After insertion, bruising or tenderness may temporarily occur, which can be managed according to instructions.

How Do We Approach Removal Timing and Pregnancy Planning?

Implanon removal is considered in the following situations:

• When pregnancy is planned
• When side effects that are difficult to adapt to persist
• When approximately 3 years have passed since insertion

The timing of ovulation and menstruation returning after removal varies individually. If you are preparing for pregnancy, it's advisable to discuss the removal timing and subsequent plans together. You can review the direction suitable for your situation through Pre-Pregnancy Care or Contraception Counseling.

Frequently Asked Questions During Consultation

Here are common questions heard in the clinic:

• Will I stop having periods entirely?
• How long does irregular bleeding last?
• Can I gain weight?
• Can I get pregnant immediately after removal?

The answers to these questions often vary greatly depending on an individual's body condition and medical history, rather than being fixed. Therefore, when considering Implanon, a thorough consultation about your personal contraception plans is important.

In Summary

Implanon is one method that allows for long-term contraception without the need for daily pill intake. However, side effects such as changes in bleeding patterns can occur, and their manifestations vary from person to person. Therefore, it is safe to consider suitability before insertion, post-insertion management, removal, and subsequent pregnancy plans all together.

Dr. Eun-Jin Lee, Chief Director (Samsung Medical Center OB/GYN Specialist, Member of Korean Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Member of Korean Society of Menopause) Dr. Eun-Jin Lee's Profile First Published 2026-02-21 / Last Reviewed 2026-06-17

This article is for general medical information and individual differences exist. Please confirm accurate diagnosis and the contraception method suitable for you through consultation with an OB/GYN specialist.