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Implantable contraceptives for women
Olav Meirik1, Ian S Fraser, Catherine d'Arcangues
1Department of Reproductive Health and Research, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland.
Human Reproduction Update
|March 18, 2003
Summary
Progestogen-only implants like Norplant, Jadelle, and Implanon offer highly effective and safe contraception. Comprehensive family planning services and provider training are essential for their successful use worldwide.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Health
- Contraception
- Public Health
Background:
- Increasing global use of progestogen-only implantable contraceptives.
- Need for comprehensive evidence review on existing methods.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and summarize evidence on progestogen-only implants.
- To inform an Expert Consultation by the World Health Organization.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of toxicological, clinical, endocrinological, epidemiological, and social science studies.
- Inclusion of operations research and economic evaluations.
- Expert evaluation and consensus building.
Main Results:
- High contraceptive effectiveness and safety established for 5-year levonorgestrel implants (Norplant, Jadelle).
- 3-year etonogestrel implant (Implanon) shows high effectiveness and satisfactory safety.
- Chinese levonorgestrel implants demonstrate satisfactory performance, but safety assessment is limited.
- Insufficient data on implant use in women with medical conditions.
Conclusions:
- Progestogen-only implants are effective and safe contraceptive options.
- Quality family planning services and provider training are crucial for effective implementation.
- Further research is needed on implant use in specific populations, particularly women with medical conditions.