Contraceptive implant insertion and removal in Turkey: effective long-term birth control

How does a contraceptive implant work?

The contraceptive implant, a small device inserted under the skin of a woman's arm, provides a discreet and effective method of contraception for up to 3 years. It works by gradually releasing a progestin hormone, etonogestrel, directly into the bloodstream.

Unlike the pill or the skin patch, the implant does not release estrogen. It works on three main fronts to prevent pregnancy:

• Blocking ovulation: Etonogestrel works by disrupting the natural hormonal cycle, preventing the maturation and release of eggs, making pregnancy impossible.
• Thinning of the uterine lining: Progestin reduces the thickness of the uterine lining, making implantation of an embryo unlikely in the event of fertilization.
• Thickening of the cervical mucus: The implant changes the texture of the cervical mucus, making it thicker and creating an additional barrier to sperm traveling to the uterus.

Indications and contraindications for contraceptive implants

The contraceptive implant provides a convenient, reversible solution for women who want effective contraception without the daily pill.

It is ideal for women who are unable or unwilling to use estrogen-based contraceptives such as the pill, the patch or the vaginal ring because of adverse side effects or medical contraindications.

In this way, it effectively replaces other contraceptive methods that are contraindicated, such as the intrauterine device (IUD).

The implant is not suitable for everyone. It is important to discuss with your doctor whether the implant is right for you, especially if you have

• A history of blood clots.
• Certain types of cancer.
• Liver problems.
• Uncontrolled blood pressure.

How long does the contraceptive implant last?

The contraceptive implant is the most effective method of contraception of all the existing devices. Indeed, its efficiency borders on perfection and is 99.9%. The remaining 0.01% is caused by improper handling during the installation of the device.

However, the lifespan of this contraceptive method is limited and does not last indefinitely. Even if it works directly after implantation, the effectiveness of a contraceptive implant only lasts an average of three years.

Procedure for fitting a contraceptive implant

Before inserting the contraceptive implant in Turkey, the midwife or gynecologist accommodates the insertion site by applying an anesthetic patch or cream. The implant is then inserted into the patient's non-dominant arm (usually the left arm for right-handed women and vice versa). A fine needle is used to insert the implant, which is usually painless.

Contraception becomes effective 24 hours after implantation, so it is necessary to use another method of contraception, such as a condom, for the first 15 days. A follow-up visit to the gynecologist is also recommended 3 months after implantation.

The insertion and removal of the contraceptive implant must be performed by a qualified health professional to avoid the risk of complications. Turkey Santé will put you in touch with experienced gynecologists and specialists who can provide you with specialized medical care. 

Advantages of contraceptive implants

The contraceptive implant is a reversible method of contraception with many advantages:

• Highly effective: with a failure rate of only 0.1%.
• Convenient: once inserted, the implant protects you for 3 years (or 2 years for certain models). You don't have to worry about taking the pill or using a condom every day.
• Discreet: The implant is small, flexible and hard to feel under the skin.
• Reversible: The implant can be removed at any time. You'll quickly regain your fertility after the implant is removed.
• Reduced risk of certain pelvic inflammatory diseases.
• Less expensive than other long-term contraceptive methods, such as the IUD.

Possible side effects

As with any birth control method, the implant can cause side effects. However, these effects are usually mild and disappear on their own after a few months. The most common side effects are

• Effect on libido (decrease or increase).
• Increased breast sensitivity.
• Headaches.
• Acne.
• Mood changes
• Possible weight gain.
• Changes in menstrual flow (longer, shorter, or less frequent periods).

More serious but rare side effects may also occur. It is important to seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe symptoms such as sudden arm pain, redness or swelling at the insertion site, or difficulty breathing.