Contraceptive Implants
Contraceptive Implants are here!
We are booking appointments for insertion of contraceptive implants.
There was one brand available in Canada years ago and other brands have been used by millions of women all
over the world. Canada has the most popular brand called Nexplanon.
What is a contraceptive implant?
It is a small rod inserted under the skin of your arm.
It releases a hormone, etonogestrel.
How does it work?
The hormone prevents ovulation (when the egg is released from the ovary).
This is the same way that birth control pills, patches, rings and shots work.
How well does the implant work compared to other contraceptives?
If 1000 people use it for one year, we expect 1 to get pregnant.
It is similar to surgical sterilization in effectiveness.
How do implants compare to the pill?
Most birth control pills (as well as the patches and rings) have a combination of estrogen and progesterone. Some people can’t use birth control with estrogen because they have conditions that can increase their risk of blood clots and some because they have side effects. The implant is similar to the progesterone-only pill in the amount of hormone (and therefore the associated side effects). However, the implant is more effective and much more convenient.
How do implants compare to IUDs?
Copper IUDs have no hormone and periods get heavier and crampier. The hormonal IUDs have less hormone than the implant, so have fewer hormonal side effects. IUDs work by changing the lining of the uterus but do not change the natural hormone cycle or ovulation, while implants prevent ovulation. The implant is inserted into your arm through your skin, while the IUD is inserted into your uterus through your vagina, which can be more uncomfortable for some patients.
All of these contraceptives are much safer than getting pregnant !
What is it like to get an implant inserted?
The doctor will inject a small amount of local anesthetic (freezing) in
your skin of the inside of your upper arm before inserting the rod.
You will feel the needle only. There may be some bruising after.
What is it like to get an implant removed?
The doctor will inject a small amount of local anesthetic
(freezing) around the rod before removing it.
Please use the blue IUD/Implant Booking Form Button Below. It may take us a while to contact you.
Call 604-709-5611 to schedule your appointment. Our phone lines are very busy but it may be faster than filling out the form.