Prolonged effectiveness of Norplant(R) capsule implants: a 7-year study

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Health
• Contraception
• Clinical Effectiveness Studies

Background:

• Norplant (levonorgestrel implants) is a long-acting reversible contraceptive.
• Assessing the long-term effectiveness and pregnancy rates of contraceptive implants is crucial for family planning.
• Previous studies indicated high efficacy, but extended duration data is valuable.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the duration of effectiveness and pregnancy rates of soft tubing Norplant contraceptive implants over a 7-year period.
• To compare Norplant's effectiveness with tubal sterilization in different age groups.
• To determine if Norplant remains effective for extended use up to seven years.

Main Methods:

• A prospective study involving 1210 women using soft tubing Norplant implants.
• Data collection on pregnancy occurrences over a 7-year follow-up period.
• Analysis of pregnancy rates based on age and weight at enrollment.

Main Results:

• The cumulative pregnancy rate at 5 years was 1.1/100, and at 7 years, it was 1.9/100.
• No pregnancies were reported in women aged 30+ years who weighed less than 100 kg at enrollment.
• For women aged 18-33 years, 7-year Norplant effectiveness was comparable to tubal sterilization; for women 34+ years, it was equal to or surpassed tubal sterilization.

Conclusions:

• Soft tubing Norplant contraceptive implants demonstrate high and sustained effectiveness for up to 7 years.
• Norplant offers a reliable long-term contraceptive option, with pregnancy rates comparable to or better than tubal sterilization in specific age groups.
• Continued effectiveness in later years of use supports Norplant as a viable long-term birth control solution.