contraceptive implant

[sarah4444]

I'm currently on the pill for contraception but my doctor mentioned the implant as an idea for me. I'm interested in getting it as i sometimes forget to take my pill and think it will be on the whole more convenient. My boyfriend is against the idea as he thinks there are too many side effects and problems from it although when i have looked it up there seems to be less that the pill, although the one thing that worries me is that its common not to have a period and surely thats unhealthy ?? Just wondered if anyone knew any information or has the implant themselves an could tell me about their experiences. I'm 17.

[frinster]

Hi there,

I'm sure everyone has different experiences with the implant, but personally mine is a big load of hassle. I have put on weight, got greasy skin and my periods are irregular, painful and last over 2 weeks. I have had it in for 2 years and the only reason I haven't had it taken out yet is because if a bit scared of how much it is going to hurt (apparently the tissue in your arm eventually fuses around the implant - eiw!)

You may not have any of these problems, but think carefully before you get one because it might not be a magic answer like I thought it would be!

[karma22]

I'm even more of having my implant out in November now frinster!! argh!

I would personally recommend it as I have been very pleased with mine. I had mood swings for the first day or so then that went. I started off for about a year and a half not having periods at all (which like you I was worried was unhealthy but I don't think medical professionals think it is else they wouldn't give it to you) then in the last year and a half or so I have started getting the odd period which sometimes tend to last quite a long time.

I have gained about a stone but don't know if thats down to implant or not really. The implant itself doesn't make you put on weight - its the chemical inside that makes you want to eat more apparantly.

[karma22]

*even more scared (typo)

[frinster]

sorry Karma!

I think maybe I'm just unlucky really, and had some crazy idea that an implant would be the best thing ever.

[karma22]

Its ok. I like to know the facts even if it is scary! x :-)

[dulcie12]

I have the implant myself.... I made the decision to move onto this mode of contraception after having a fair few troubles with the injection and quite frankly I am so glad I did. I have never had any problems and you really don't have to think about anything.

I was a little worried about getting it done at first and I will admit that my arm went black and blue when I first had it done but I honestly didn't feel a thing. I haven't had a period in 2 years and quite frankly.... it't the best thing in the world

[ummmm]

I've had it for 3 years....haven't had a period since...bonus!!!

No side effects.

[veritymoon]

ive had one for 3 years no problems and also had one removed also no porblem did not hurt a bit to be removed 10min job well worth it for 3 years of reliable contraception

[jrobinson200]

hi
i got the implant about 4 months ago after deciding it may be better than forgetting the pill now and again. I didnt find it painful going in at all just a pressure, and slight bruising for a week. I had slight bleeding after 2 weeks for about a week and since then ive had the odd spot but nothing major at all. no period cramps or particualrly moody. when you are on the pill the bleeding you have is not a proper peroid anyway, so its not different on the implant, as someone said the doc wouldnt give it if it wasnt healthy. also, i ahvetn gained weight, ive actually lost it. it is something that is the same as the pill that can increase your appetite. hth