A small rod inserted under the skin of the upper arm — providing highly effective contraception for up to 3 years with no daily pill to remember. Implanon insertion at Mascot Healthcare, Akoka takes under 15 minutes, uses local anaesthetic, and is performed by a certified doctor.
Implanon (etonogestrel implant, brand also sold as Nexplanon) is a small, flexible plastic rod — about 4cm long and 2mm wide — inserted just under the skin of the inner upper arm. It releases a continuous low dose of progestogen (etonogestrel) that prevents pregnancy by suppressing ovulation, thickening cervical mucus, and thinning the uterine lining.
Implanon is one of the most effective reversible contraceptive methods available — more than 99.9% effective. Because there is nothing to remember, there is no risk of user error. It works immediately if inserted in the first 5 days of a menstrual cycle; otherwise, additional contraception is needed for 7 days.
The implant is effective for up to 3 years. It can be removed at any time before the 3 years — fertility returns within days of removal. Many women choose Implanon specifically because of its reversibility compared to IUD or sterilisation.
Implanon is suitable for most women who want effective long-acting reversible contraception. It is particularly good for women who cannot use oestrogen-containing contraception (combined pill, patch, ring) — including breastfeeding mothers, women with migraines with aura, women with hypertension, and women over 35 who smoke. A clinical assessment at Mascot Healthcare confirms suitability before insertion.
Irregular bleeding is the most common side effect — periods may become lighter and infrequent, or irregular and unpredictable. This is not harmful but can be inconvenient. Some women have no periods at all (amenorrhoea) — this is safe. Acne and mood changes are reported by a minority of users. The rod itself is usually not visible and not felt by most women after the first few weeks.
Doctor reviews your medical history, confirms Implanon is suitable, and explains the procedure, side effects, and alternatives. Takes 10 minutes.
The inner upper arm is cleaned and marked. You lie with your arm bent and externally rotated — the standard position for insertion.
A small amount of local anaesthetic is injected under the skin — a brief sting, then numbness within 1–2 minutes.
A disposable applicator inserts the rod just under the skin in approximately 30 seconds. You feel pressure but no pain. The rod is confirmed in position by palpation.
A small plaster is applied. The arm may be lightly bandaged for 24 hours. There are no stitches.
Avoid heavy lifting for 24 hours. Keep dry for 24 hours. The bruising and tenderness settle within a few days. The rod becomes imperceptible within a few weeks.
No special preparation is required. Ideally come during the first 5 days of your menstrual cycle (days 1–5) so the implant works immediately — no additional contraception needed. If you come at another time in your cycle, the implant is inserted the same day but additional contraception (condoms) is needed for 7 days.
Bring a list of any current medications — some drugs reduce implant effectiveness (certain anticonvulsants, rifampicin for TB). These interactions are discussed at your consultation.
By appointment at Mascot Healthcare, Akoka. 15-minute procedure, 3-year protection. Certified doctor.