[Contraception using a subcutaneous implant, Norplant]

The contraceptive device Norplant, not yet commercialized in Belgium, has been studied prospectively on 198 women, which were followed for up to 42 months per patient. All together, 2,643 months of use were surveyed. Norplant consists of 6 silastic capsules, liberating levonorgestrel, a synthetic progestagen. The pregnancy protection lasts for 5 years. Insertion site is the inner part of the upper arm. The Pearl Index was 0.46% women-years (only one pregnancy occurred); the continuity rate was high (86% after 1 year and 60% after 2 years). The main side effects were menstrual disturbances and abnormal intermenstrual blood loss. No other important side effects have been found. There is no absolute contra-indication to the use of Norplant.