Inserting an IMPLANON is a simple procedure that takes only a few minutes. If you have questions or concerns about IMPLANON or the insertion procedure itself, please ask. Getting complete information helps you stay at ease and makes the insertion more comfortable.

When you arrive, we will confirm that you are on your period. If you are switching from another progestin-only method (like Mirena or DepoProvera), you don't have to be having a period. After all of your questions have been answered, you will be asked to sign a consent form.

What to Expect:

For the insertion procedure, you will be asked to lie on the exam table with your arm up by your head. The IMPLANON site will be marked and cleaned with an antiseptic solution. A local anesthetic will be injected just under the skin where the IMPLANON is going to be inserted. You may feel a quick pinch or a brief stinging sensation as the anesthetic is injected. After a few seconds, the area will be numb, and you will only feel a pressure sensation - no pain.

It takes only a minute or so to insert the IMPLANON under the skin. Just before the inserter is removed, you will hear a "SNAP" from the inserter. This is normal and does not mean that something broke. Once the IMPLANON has been inserted, the site will be covered with an adhesive bandage. Your upper arm will also be wrapped in a dressing to hold pressure on the insertion site.

When the anesthetic wears off, you may feel some mild soreness or tenderness at the insertion site. You may also have some bruising. The soreness shouldn't last more than a day or two, and it shouldn't interfere with normal daily activities. Any bruising should gradually fade over the next several days.

Following IMPLANON insertion:

• Leave the pressure dressing in place for 24 hours. Keep it dry during that time.
• Leave the adhesive bandage in place for 3-5 days.
• If you have soreness at the insertion site, you may take acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil), or naproxen sodium (Aleve) as directed on the bottle.
• Avoid heavy lifting for 1-2 days. Let us know if you need a work excuse.
• Call if any of the following occurs:
• Severe pain at the insertion site
• Redness, warmth, drainage at the insertion site
• Heavy or prolonged vaginal bleeding. Unscheduled spotting is common and does not need to be evaluated.
• Severe headaches
• Depression
• You think you are pregnant