Implanon. The new alternative

It is a long time since Australian women have had any new contraceptive choices available to them. In May 2001, the new progestagen only hormone implant Implanon (containing etonogestrel) was introduced, providing an effective, long term contraceptive option which has few serious adverse effects.

By attending training, doctors can become familiar with the clinical profile of etonogestrel and the techniques involved with its insertion and removal. Only then can they counsel women on its use, select appropriate users, plan the correct timing of insertion and become skilled in the techniques involved.

Etonogestrel is a well tolerated, third generation progestagen. The implant provides reversible contraception to women across the reproductive age range. There have been few problems with its use and those problems seen have been related to intolerance of progestogenic side effects, poor patient selection and counselling, inappropriate timing of insertion or incorrect insertion techniques.