Changing a contraceptive implant involves two primary steps: removing the existing implant and then inserting a new one. This entire process is typically performed by a trained healthcare professional in a clinic setting and is designed to be quick and as comfortable as possible through the use of local anaesthesia.
1. Removing the Old Implant
The removal of an existing implant is a straightforward procedure that can be done at any time, depending on your needs or the implant's expiration date.
The steps involved are:
- Numbing the Area: First, the healthcare provider will numb the arm with a local anaesthetic around the area where the implant is situated. This step is crucial to ensure that you experience no pain during the removal process.
- Making a Small Incision: Once the arm is completely numb, the clinician will make a tiny cut in your skin directly over or very close to the end of the implant.
- Gentle Extraction: Through this small incision, the implant is then gently pulled out. The entire removal process is usually very quick, often taking only a few minutes.
After the implant is removed, a small sterile dressing or plaster will be applied to the site, and the area should heal promptly.
2. Inserting a New Implant
If you are replacing an old implant to continue receiving contraceptive protection, a new implant can often be inserted immediately after the old one is removed, usually during the same visit.
- Site Preparation: A new implant is typically inserted into the same arm (often a slightly different spot) or the opposite arm, usually on the inner side of the upper arm. The chosen insertion area will first be cleaned and then thoroughly numbed with a local anaesthetic, similar to the removal procedure.
- Insertion Process: A small entry point or incision may be made, or the insertion device may simply pierce the skin. The new, flexible, matchstick-sized implant is then carefully placed just under the skin using a special applicator tool.
- Confirmation: Once inserted, the healthcare provider will gently feel your arm to confirm that the implant is correctly positioned under the skin.
- Aftercare: A small dressing or bandage will be applied to the insertion site. Stitches are usually not required. It is common to experience some minor bruising, tenderness, or swelling in the area for a few days following the procedure.
It's important to note that once a new implant is fitted, you may need to use additional contraception for 7 days afterwards, depending on where you are in your menstrual cycle. This ensures continuous and effective birth control while the new implant takes full effect.
Procedure Overview: Implant Change
The table below summarizes the key aspects of changing a contraceptive implant:
| Aspect of Change | Description |
|---|---|
| Anaesthesia Used | Local anaesthetic is administered to numb the arm for both the removal and insertion phases, ensuring the procedure is largely painless. |
| Type of Incision | A tiny cut is made for implant removal. For insertion, a small incision or puncture is made to guide the new implant just under the skin. |
| Procedure Duration | Both removal and insertion are relatively quick, with each part typically completed within a few minutes. |
| Implant Placement | The old implant is removed from the upper arm. A new one is usually inserted into the same arm (a different spot) or the opposite upper arm, just beneath the skin's surface. |
| Contraceptive Effectiveness | Depending on the timing in your cycle, additional contraception might be recommended for up to 7 days after a new implant is fitted to ensure continuous protection. |
Key Takeaways
- Changing an implant is a common and routine medical procedure.
- It involves a simple two-step process: removal of the old device and insertion of a new one.
- Local anaesthesia is consistently used to ensure patient comfort throughout.
- Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice on the procedure, expected aftercare, and contraception requirements.
