Prospective multicentre study comparing levonorgestrel implants with a combined contraceptive pill: final results

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Health
• Contraception
• Clinical Trials

Background:

• Norplant is a long-term subdermal contraceptive implant containing levonorgestrel.
• Combined oral contraceptive pills are a common method of reversible contraception.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the acceptability and continuation rates of Norplant implants versus a combined oral contraceptive pill.
• To identify reasons for discontinuation for both contraceptive methods.

Main Methods:

• An open, prospective, multicentre, parallel group study.
• Followed subjects using Norplant implants and a gestodene/ethinyloestradiol combined pill.
• Outcome criteria included duration of use and reasons for discontinuation.

Main Results:

• Norplant users had a statistically significantly higher continuation rate at one year (83.4%) compared to pill users (64.4%).
• The most common discontinuation reasons were menstrual and mood changes for implants, and mood changes and headaches for pills.
• A higher proportion of Norplant users reported being 'very satisfied' (28.5%) compared to pill users (14.6%).

Conclusions:

• Norplant implants demonstrate high acceptability and continuation rates in the UK, consistent with international findings.
• High continuation suggests potential for significant demand for implant removal and reinsertion.
• Healthcare providers should anticipate increased activity related to Norplant management.