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/Contraception/Long-acting reversible contraception/Information for after your IUS, IUD, implant has been inserted or removed

Intrauterine device (IUD) or copper coil, intrauterine system (IUS) or hormonal coil and implant information

Important information after your implant has been inserted or removed

Important information after your implant has been inserted

When will my implant begin working for contraception?

Use additional contraception such as condoms for seven days unless otherwise advised by your nurse or doctor (depends on the timing of fitting).

After-care advice

You will have a bandage over the site where the implant has been fit.
Please keep this clean and dry and keep it in place for 24 hours (48 hours if this was a
Removal and refit).
This will help prevent infection and minimise bruising and swelling.
When you remove the bandage there may be small plaster strips (steristrips)
Please leave these in place for 5 to 7days.

Bleeding pattern

The most common side effect of the implant is irregular bleeding.
Whilst this bleeding is not harmful, it can be a nuisance.
If you are concerned please make an appointment.
We will assess you to make sure there is no other reason for the bleeding and offer
medication to help control it.

Follow up

Bruising is common but if the arm is very red, swollen, itchy or painful please seek
medical advice.
Routine follow up is not required but we encourage you to contact us if you have any

Important information after your implant has been removed

When will my fertility return after removal?

Fertility can return very rapidly after your implant has been removed.
You will need to use alternative contraception straight away to avoid pregnancy.
Please discuss your options for contraception with your doctor or nurse.

After-care advice

You will have a bandage over the site where the implant has been removed.
Please keep this clean and dry and keep it in place for 48 hours.
This will help prevent infection and minimise bruising and swelling.
When you remove the bandage there will be small plaster strips (steristrips)
Please leave these in place for 5-7days.
Bruising is common but if the arm is very red, swollen, itchy or painful please seek
medical advice

Find out more about these methods of contraception here

Contraception Choices

There are many types of contraception available and none are perfect. The Contraception Choices website provides honest information to help weigh up the pros and cons.