Norplant subdermal contraceptive system: experience in Taiwan

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Health
• Contraception
• Endocrinology

Background:

• Norplant implants represent a long-acting reversible contraceptive (LARC) method.
• Assessing the efficacy and safety of LARCs is crucial for family planning programs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness and safety of Norplant implants in a Taiwanese population.
• To determine the continuation rates and reasons for discontinuation of Norplant implants.

Main Methods:

• Prospective study involving 567 female volunteers enrolled between November 1988 and December 1994.
• Follow-up assessments included pregnancy rates, adverse effects, and reasons for discontinuation.
• Fertility assessment after implant removal was also conducted.

Main Results:

• A cumulative pregnancy rate of 1.2 per 100 users over 5 years was observed.
• Menstrual problems were the primary adverse effect and reason for discontinuation (65%).
• Continuation rates remained above 42% at 5 years, with rapid return of fertility post-removal.

Conclusions:

• Norplant implants demonstrate high efficacy and safety as a long-acting reversible contraceptive method.
• The system is suitable for introduction into Taiwan's national family planning program.
• Further research may explore strategies to mitigate discontinuation due to menstrual side effects.