Implanon NXT has an effectiveness rate of ninety-nine percent, and is what medical professionals are deeming the long-awaited solution to effectively curbing unwanted pregnancies.
This contraceptive is believed to be effective for three years. It has been tested in seventeen countries, including the United States.
According to Dr Ramdharee, “This contraceptive seems viable – it is a replacement, or rather an alternative, for the loop.”
With that in mind Dr Ramdharee provided useful information regarding the new contraceptive on the market.
So what is Implanon NXT?
Implanon NXT is a long-acting progestogen sub-dermal (deep beneath the skin) implant. This implant is a single rod about the size of a matchstick that is placed just under the skin of the upper arm. It works by releasing small amounts of progestogen into the body.
These implants contain no oestrogen, and so are therefore suitable for most women, including those that are breastfeeding. In a comparative study, copper intrauterine devices versus Implanon, it was found that Implanon has no effect on milk quality or quantity, and makes no difference in infant growth, as compared to copper intrauterine devices. How is this contraceptive inserted? The woman is made to lie on her back in a comfortable manner, with her non-dominant arm turned outwards and stretched. Two marks are made on the arm to mark the insertion site, and thereafter the area is cleaned with a disinfectant. The area is then anaesthetised and the implant is inserted about ten centimetres deep.
The incision is then closed with an adhesive bandage, and women are advised to remove the bandage after 24 hours. The implant is removed in a similar manner, after three years or if requested. What are the side effects? Side effects are less pronounced as compared to other contraceptive methods, but they do occur. Side effects include headaches, weight increases, acne, breast pain and abdominal pain.
A very important fact to list is that pregnancies can occur if the implant was inserted at the incorrect time, or the wrong procedure was followed.
Where is the contraceptive administrated? In local clinics at no cost to you, or privately at other medical practitioners for a fee of R 1 622, excluding insertion fee. This is relatively cheaper than the loop, administrated at a fee of R 2 000, excluding insertion. Eligibility: This contraceptive is eligible for people from menarche to menopause (18 to 45). According to Assistant Nursing Manager HM Shange, “This contraceptive will bring a ray of hope in the battle against unwanted pregnancies.” She also added it will effectively curb teenage pregnancies too.
With 306 insertions administrated in March the future for this contraceptive looks promising.
A birth control solution has arrived
Implanon NXT is a long-acting progestogen sub-dermal (deep beneath the skin) implant.
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