The contraceptive implant (sometimes simply called 'the implant') used in the UK is called Nexplanon. (Implants inserted before October 2010 are called Implanon.) It is a small flexible tube that's inserted under the skin of your upper arm under local anaesthetic and releases the hormone progestogen. The main way the implant works is by stopping the ovaries releasing eggs. In addition it thickens the mucus at the neck of the womb (which makes it harder for sperm to get through) and also makes the lining of the womb thinner so it is less likely to accept a fertilised egg.
Three years or until you have it removed. The IUD is a longer-lasting contraception.
Once it has been removed your fertility will return quickly and you could get pregnant.
If implanted correctly, it's more than 99% effective. Fewer than one woman in 1,000 will get pregnant in one year.
Implants are available from your GP or sexual health clinic and will be inserted by a trained doctor or nurse.
For more information call 0800 22 44 88 or use our sexual health service finder to look for help in your area.
