Contraceptive Implant

Contraceptive Implant at MUMS clinic

Dr Sriram ( Male GP )  and Miss Natalie Woodhead, Consultant Gynaecologist fit and remove implants at MUMS. There are no waiting times and you do not need a referral from your GP.

Here are the Implant services we offer at MUMS and the cost which includes the consultation and the procedure:

1. Implant Fitting - £400.00
2. Implant Removal - £300.00
3. Deep Complex Implant Removal with Ultrasound - £475.00
4. Removal and re-fit of Implant - £560.00
5. Deep Complex Implant Removal with Ultrasound and re-fit new Implant - £635.00

The contraceptive Implant

The contraceptive implant is placed under the skin in your upper arm.  It is a single flexible rod measuring approximately 4cms in length and 0.2cm in diameter.  It releases the hormone progestogen and lasts for 3 years.

Effectiveness and mode of action

It is a very effective method of contraception – over 99% effective.  It mainly acts by preventing the ovaries releasing an egg (i.e., prevents ovulation).  It also thickens the mucus from the cervix (neck of the womb) making it difficult for the sperm to enter the womb.  It also thins the lining of the uterus (womb), thus preventing the fertilized egg to implant.

Advantages

1. It lasts for three years and is an effective method of contraception.
2. Can be used during breast feeding.
3. Once removed, fertility returns to normal.

Disadvantages

1. Altered periods – they can become irregular, prolonged or may stop altogether.
2. You may suffer from hormonal side effects e.g., mood changes, breast tenderness, headaches, or skin changes (acne or greasy skin).
3. Inserting and removing the implant involves a minor surgical procedure and is carried out under a local anaesthetic.
4. The effectiveness of the implant can be affected by certain medications.

Risks

Very very rarely the implant may migrate up or down the arm into the muscles of the arm or through the blood vessels into the chest.

Procedure

Fitting the implant – This is carried out under a local anaesthetic – the area of the skin just below where the implant is going to be inserted is frozen with a numbing injection.  No cut is given to the skin.  Following the insertion of the implant plaster strips and a dressing are applied to the wound.

The doctor will let you know when the implant will start to work.

Removing the implant

If the implant is felt, then it can be removed easily through a small cut given in the skin over the implant.  This procedure is also carried out under a local anaesthetic.  Following the procedure, plaster strips and a dressing will be applied to the wound.  Very occasionally the implant may not be felt.  Then an ultrasound scan of the arm needs to be carried out to find out the position of the implant.  This may involve a longer cut, which will need stitches and a dressing.