Managing side effects from the contraceptive implant

The contraception implant remains a widely used and highly effective long acting method of contraception. Through the release of the hormone progestogen, it can offer protection from pregnancy for up to five years, however irregular bleeding is a common side effect.

While most users find that bleeding patterns settle within the first three months of having the implant, around 30% may experience unpredictable bleeding. Bleeding patterns can also change at any time while you are using the implant.

If your irregular bleeding lasts for longer than 3 months, or you have a change in your bleeding, then it’s advisable to get a check-up with local sexual health clinic or GP. Treatment options are available and may include a short course of the combined oral contraceptive pill or progestogen only pill.

The combined pill is often used on its own to reduce heavy periods and for those who cannot safely take this pill type, the progestogen-only pill may be offered. Taking the pill, in addition to the implant, can help to reduce any irregular bleeding and may help your body to settle into a bleeding pattern.

It is usually recommended to combine the implant and pill for 3 months. If your bleeding becomes unpredictable again after stopping the pill, please check with your healthcare professional to discuss longer term use of the combined pill or progestogen-only pill, or whether to consider an alternative contraception option.

Bleeding whilst using the contraceptive implant is rarely serious, especially if it has only started after having the implant inserted. However, it’s important to rule out other causes, including some sexually transmitted infections (STIs). If you’re over 25, it’s also worth checking if you are up-to-date with your cervical smears.

The implant is a soft piece of plastic that is put in under the skin or your arm.  It contains just one hormone, progestogen, which is similar to hormones produced by your body.

The implant is a long-acting method of contraception – it works for up to five years –  so you don’t have to rely on remembering contraception.

It’s also one of the most effective methods of contraception — fewer than 1 in 1,000 people with the implant will get pregnant.

For more information on the contraceptive implant, see our contraception pages.