Study of Norplant implants in Shanghai: three-year experience

A clinical follow-up study conducted in Shanghai, China confirmed earlier reports that the Norplant implants, Norplant-1 and Norplant-2, are both highly effective with high continuation rates. The implants, however, tend to cause menstrual disturbance, spotting and bleeding. The mean hemoglobin value, however, did not change and the blood pressure remained stable. The report of 8 cases of thrombocytopenia among 301 Norplant-2 users is a source of concern.