A contraceptive implant is a form of contraception for women, to prevent pregnancy. It contains the progestogen called levonorgestrel, a hormone similar to the one produced by ovaries. The implant doesn't contain oestrogen.
In Aotearoa New Zealand, the contraceptive implant is also called Jadelle®, the ‘implant’ or ‘rods’.
- The implant is made up of 2 small rods (each about the size of a matchstick) that contain progestogen. The rods are placed under your skin, on the inside of your arm (you can feel the rods under your skin).
- The implant works by slowly releasing progestogen into your bloodstream. Progestogen prevents pregnancy by making the mucus in your cervix thicker so sperm can’t travel through it to get to your egg. For most people it also stops your ovaries from releasing an egg each month.
- The implant is called a long-acting form of contraception because it lasts for up to 5 years.
- Its effect is reversible which means that your natural fertility returns to normal when the implant is removed.