These instructions are important to read and follow before you have a contraceptive implant inserted in your arm.

What is a contraceptive implant?

The contraceptive implant is a form of long-acting reversible contraception for women. Small rods about the size of a matchstick are put under the skin in the inside of your arm. 

What do I need to know before my implant is inserted?

You must not be pregnant/hapū or at risk of pregnancy when you have your implant inserted.

It is preferable that you have your period (or are within five days of your period starting) when you have your implant inserted. If not, you must use reliable contraception/ārai hapū before the insertion and for seven days after the insertion.

If you are not within the first five days of your cycle and have not been using reliable contraception your implant will not be inserted. The usual appointment fee will apply.

Please arrange to have children cared for while you are having the implant put in.

What do I do After the implant has been inserted?

• You will probably notice some tenderness at the insertion site for a few days. There may also be some bruising or a little bleeding. You can take some paracetamol to reduce the discomfort.
• Keep the insertion area dry for two days to prevent infection.
• The bandage can be removed the next day.
• The protective dressing and the steristrips can be removed once the skin heals – usually three to four days after the insertion.
• Usually, implants can be removed in the clinic but on rare occasions, a referral to a specialist may be needed for this procedure.

Contact one of our clinics if you have any concerns about your implant insertion.