A local anaesthetic is given into the skin and, when the area is numb, the implant is inserted. The implant is usually placed on the inside of the upper arm.

The implant is normally inserted during the first five days of the menstrual period but it can be inserted at other times if there is no chance that the woman could already be pregnant.

If it is inserted in the first five days of the menstrual period it may be immediately effective.

If it is inserted at other times it will not be effective for seven days.

The implant can be left in the arm for three years (or removed earlier if desired). Removal is a simple procedure using a small amount of local anaesthetic.

You should expect intermittent spotting or bleeding for up to 6 months while the implant settles in. A follow up visit will be made to check on the placement and the bleeding pattern.