Advantages and disadvantages of the hormonal implant for birth control

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Advantages and disadvantages of the hormonal implant for birth control

The following table lists the advantages and disadvantages of using the Implanon implant birth control method.

**Deciding about hormonal implants**
Consideration	Hormone implant (Implanon)
Advantages¹	Provides extremely effective birth control for 3 years Does not require interruption of foreplay or intercourse Safe to use while breast-feeding Can be used by women who should not take estrogen Reduces cramps and pain at ovulation Less menstrual bleeding overall Can be used by smokers over age 35 Rapid return to fertility following removal
Disadvantages¹	Unpredictable and irregular menstrual bleeding Must be inserted and removed by a trained health professional May cause menstrual periods to stop or be very light Does not protect against sexually transmitted diseases or HIV May cause headaches

References

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Citations
Zieman M, et al. (2007). Progestin-only contraceptives. In Managing Contraception for Your Pocket, pp. 117–133. Tiger, GA: Bridging the Gap Foundation.

Credits

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Author	Bets Davis, MFA
Editor	Maria G. Essig, MS, ELS
Associate Editor	Michele Cronen
Associate Editor	Denele Ivins
Associate Editor	Pat Truman, MATC
Primary Medical Reviewer	Joy Melnikow, MD, MPH - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer	Kirtly Jones, MD - Obstetrics and Gynecology
Last Updated	May 22, 2008

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Last updated:	May 22, 2008
Author:	Bets Davis, MFA
Reviewed By:	Joy Melnikow, MD, MPH - Family Medicine, Kirtly Jones, MD - Obstetrics and Gynecology
Editors:	Maria G. Essig, MS, ELS, Pat Truman, MATC

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