Norplant--a contraceptive implant

Norplant, a progestagen implant designed to provide contraception for five years, was launched in the UK in October 1993. Almost 3 million women world wide are using it. The manufacturer claims that Norplant is "one of the most effective and practical forms of contraception for any woman who wants long-term reliability, convenience and the opportunity to change her mind". In this article we assess its use.