Birth Control Options for Women - Implant Contraception

Disadvantages and Complications of Levonorgestrel Implants

The disadvantages of the implants are as follows:

• They have the same side effects as any device containing progestins. In many cases these problems subside as time passes, or can be substantially reduced using other therapies.
• Some studies have reported an association between depression and Norplant use. One study revealed that after two years, many Norplant users who reported severe depression at the beginning showed improvement.
• About 3% of users suffer a reaction to the local anesthetic, experience tissue or nerve damage due to poorly placed implants, or experience problems in removal.
• Certain medications interfere with Norplant, including antiseizure drugs and rifampin (rifampicin), an antibiotic used to treat tuberculosis. A physician must always be informed of any medications the patient is taking, even if they are unrelated to gynecologic problems.

There have been some reports of strokes, unexpected pressure in the brain, and clotting abnormalities in women using implants, but a major 2001 five-year study reported that there were no major health complications and that the implant was an effective, safe method of contraception.

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