Subdermal contraceptive implants

The provision of long-acting reversible contraceptive (LARC) methods is one of the best tools available to avoid high rates of unplanned pregnancy (UP), a public health problem that affects millions of women worldwide. In this review we provide an update regarding subdermal contraceptive implants including etonogestrel (ENG) and levonorgestrel (LNG) implants. Implants have been shown to be one of the most effective forms of contraceptive, with failure in only 4/1000 women for up to five years. Thus, their provision is an excellent strategy for reducing UPs. After a single intervention, implants provide long-term contraception with minimal side effects. Implants have few contraindications, but care must be taken to check for drug interactions with topiramate, rifampin and efavirenz. Although the ENG implant is approved for up to three years of use, research is ongoing into the possibility of extending its use beyond that period.