Choosing the right contraception is a personal decision, and it’s natural to have questions about which option is best suited to your lifestyle, health needs and future family planning goals.
Women’s Health Hub provides personalised contraceptive care in a supportive and welcoming environment. Whether you’re exploring contraception for the first time or considering a change, our team can help you understand your options and make an informed decision about your reproductive health.
Implanon (Contraceptive Implant)
What is Implanon?
Implanon NXT®, commonly known as “the Rod” or contraceptive implant, is a highly effective, long-acting reversible contraceptive (LARC).
The implant is a small, flexible plastic rod, approximately the size of a matchstick, that is inserted just beneath the skin of the inner upper arm. It slowly releases a hormone called progestogen, which works to prevent pregnancy for up to three years.
Implanon is one of the most effective forms of contraception available and offers a convenient, low-maintenance option for women seeking reliable pregnancy prevention.
Many women choose Implanon because it is:
- More than 99% effective at preventing pregnancy
- Long-lasting, providing protection for up to three years
- Convenient, with no need to remember a daily pill
- Fully reversible, with fertility typically returning quickly after removal
- Suitable for many women who cannot take oestrogen-containing contraception
As every woman’s health circumstances are unique, it is important to discuss your individual needs and medical history with your GP before deciding whether Implanon is right for you.
What Happens During Implanon Insertion?
Implanon insertion is a simple procedure performed by your GP in the clinic.
The area on the inner upper arm is first numbed using a local anaesthetic. Once the area is comfortable, the implant is inserted just beneath the skin using a specialised applicator.
The procedure usually takes only a few minutes, and most women can return to their normal daily activities shortly afterwards.
A small dressing will be applied after insertion, and your GP will provide instructions on how to care for the site while it heals.
If your current Implanon is approaching its expiry date, it can often be removed and replaced during the same appointment.
Implanon Removal
Implanon can be removed at any time if you wish to become pregnant, are experiencing side effects, or would like to consider another form of contraception.
Removal is performed under local anaesthetic through a small incision in the skin. If desired, a new implant can usually be inserted during the same appointment.
Is Implanon Right for You?
There is no single contraceptive method that suits everyone. Factors such as your medical history, lifestyle, future pregnancy plans, and personal preferences all play a role in determining the best option for you.
During your consultation, your GP can discuss:
- How Implanon works
- The benefits and effectiveness of the implant
- Possible side effects and changes to your menstrual cycle
- Whether Implanon is suitable for your individual circumstances
- Alternative contraception options, including intrauterine devices (IUDs)
- Your reproductive health and family planning goals
Our GPs are committed to providing evidence-based, personalised advice to help you make an informed decision about your contraceptive care.
Fees and Medicare
Eligible Medicare card holders may be able to access bulk-billed Implanon insertion and removal services at Women’s Health Hub. Please speak with our reception team for current eligibility criteria and appointment requirements.
Book a Consultation
If you’re considering Implanon or would like to learn more about your contraception options, we’re here to help.
Book a consultation with Women’s Health Hub to discuss your reproductive health goals and receive personalised advice on the contraception options available to you.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Implanon implant is a small, flexible plastic rod that is inserted beneath the skin of the upper arm. It slowly releases a hormone called progestogen, which helps prevent pregnancy.
The Implanon implant is more than 99.95% effective at preventing pregnancy, making it one of the most effective forms of reversible contraception available.
The Implanon implant provides contraception for up to three years. After this time, it should be removed and replaced if you wish to continue using this method of contraception.
Depending on when the implant is inserted during your menstrual cycle and whether you are already using contraception, it can take up to seven days to become effective.
Your GP will advise whether additional contraception is needed during this time.
Yes. At Women’s Health Hub, Implanon insertion, removal and replacement services are bulk billed for patients with a valid Medicare card.
If you have questions about eligibility or appointment fees, our team can provide further information when you book.
Yes. Patients without Medicare are welcome to access Implanon insertion, removal and replacement services at Women’s Health Hub.
These services are not bulk billed for patients without Medicare, and fees will apply. Depending on your level of cover, you may be able to claim a portion of the cost directly through your private health insurer.
Please contact our team for current fee information and to discuss your options before booking.
The implant is inserted beneath the skin of the upper arm during a consultation. A local anaesthetic is used before the procedure to help minimise discomfort.
After insertion, you should be able to feel the implant beneath your skin. Most women can return to their normal activities shortly afterwards.
Like all forms of contraception, the Implanon implant can cause side effects.
The most common side effect is a change in bleeding patterns. Some women experience lighter periods, some have no bleeding, while others may notice irregular bleeding.
Your GP can discuss the potential benefits and considerations during your consultation.
Yes. The Implanon implant can be removed at any time by a trained healthcare professional.
You may choose to have it removed if you would like to become pregnant, are considering a different contraception option or no longer wish to use the implant.
Yes. The Implanon implant is a reversible form of contraception. Fertility generally returns quickly after the implant is removed.
Some medications and herbal remedies can affect how well the implant works.
The implant may also become less effective if it is left in place beyond its recommended replacement date. Always let your GP know about any medications or supplements you are taking.
Both the Implanon implant and an IUD are highly effective long-acting reversible contraception options.
The main difference is where they are placed. The Implanon implant is inserted under the skin of the upper arm, while an IUD is inserted into the uterus.
Both options have benefits and considerations, and the most suitable choice depends on your individual health needs and preferences.
Some women prefer the Implanon implant because it is inserted into the upper arm rather than the uterus and provides highly effective contraception for up to three years.
Others appreciate that eligible patients can access bulk-billed Implanon insertion, removal and replacement services at Women’s Health Hub.
Some women may prefer an IUD because it can provide longer-term contraception, depending on the type selected. Your GP can discuss both options and help you decide which option best suits your needs.
There is no single contraception option that suits everyone.
Factors such as your medical history, future pregnancy plans, lifestyle and personal preferences can all influence which method may be most appropriate.
A consultation with your GP can help you understand your options and make an informed decision about your reproductive health.
We understand that conversations about contraception can feel personal.
At Women’s Health Hub, we provide confidential, respectful and patient-centred care in a supportive environment. During your consultation, we’ll take the time to understand your healthcare needs, answer your questions and discuss the contraception options available so you can make informed decisions about your reproductive health.
Further Information and References
This article is intended as general health information only and should not replace personalised medical advice from your GP or healthcare professional.
Information used in the preparation of this article has been sourced and adapted from trusted Australian healthcare organisations, including:
For more information about the contraceptive implant, IUDs and other contraception options, please speak with your GP or visit the websites of the organisations listed above.