Implant

How it works:

The birth control implant is a small flexible rod that is placed under the skin of your upper arm by a doctor or nurse. It works by releasing an ultra-low dose of the naturally occurring hormone progestin. The Implant prevents you from getting pregnant by stopping your body from releasing an egg.  The implant will protect you from pregnancy for up to 5 years, but it can be removed any time you want, and you can get pregnant right away. The implant is more than 99% effective at preventing pregnancy.

Perks:

  • Set it and forget it method

  • Simple and easy to insert and simple and easy to remove

  • Can lighten or stop periods

  • Decreases period cramps

  • Easy to keep private

  • Long-lasting

  • Excellent at preventing pregnancy

Drawbacks:

  • Can experience irregular bleeding

  • Doesn’t protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs)

  • Must be placed and removed by a medical professional