Contraceptive implant
The contraceptive implant is a method of contraception.
It is a small flexible stick that is the same size as a matchstick. It contains 1 hormone. This hormone prevents ovulation. It also makes it more difficult for sperm cells to enter the uterus and reach the egg cell. Additionally it makes the uterus not suitable for implantation of the egg cell.
Contraceptive implant
How does the contraceptive implant work?
A general practitioner, midwife or gynaecologist will fit the implant. You will be given a local anaesthetic and the stick will be pushed just under the skin of the inside of your upper arm. This is almost painless.
The contraceptive implant works for 3 years. After 3 years it needs to be replaced. When you are overweight it is recommended for the reliability to change the implant after 2 years, discuss this with your doctor.
A doctor fits the contraceptive implant in the upper arm of a woman.
Extremely reliable
The contraceptive implant is very reliable if used correctly. The risk of pregnancy is approximately 1 in 2,000.
Extremely reliable
Does not affect your health
The contraceptive implant contains 1 hormone. This hormone does not generally affect your health. However, in some cases it is better to choose a different method of contraception. Ask a doctor for advice.
The contraceptive implant does not make you less fertile. If you want to get pregnant, you just have the implant removed.
During the first months of using the implant, you may have side-effects such as tender breasts, headache and irregular menstrual periods. These effects usually disappear on their own. If they do not disappear, consult a doctor.
Your menstruation can become less heavy and often stop altogether. For some women, periods become heavier. Others keep on having irregular menstrual periods or bleeding between 2 periods.
No protection against STIs and HIV
The contraceptive implant does not protect you against STIs or HIV. Only a condom can protect you.
Condom
Price of a contraceptive implant
A doctor, midwife or gynaecologist can fit a contraceptive implant for about € 140 – € 200. After 3 years you have to return to the doctor for a new implant. When you are overweight it is recommended for the reliability to change the implant after 2 years, discuss this with your doctor.
Until the age of 21, most forms of contraception are reimbursed by your health insurance. However, you first have to pay the excess (eigen risico) of your health insurance policy. Check with your health insurance provider to find out how much will be reimbursed. From the age of 21, contraception is only reimbursed if you have taken out additional insurance for contraception.
What does it cost?