An assessment of the use of Implanon® in Luton
A. Agrawal, C. Robinson
The Lodge, Luton, UK
Introduction: Implanon® has several advantages over other methods of
contraception including high efficacy, minimal required maintenance, and absence
of oestrogen and rapid return of fertility after discontinuation. We present
here our experience with first 106 implanon® insertions, which we performed
between January 2000 to July 2001.
Objectives: The aims of the study were to (a) study the clinical and
demographic profile of implanon1 users, (b) assess the continuation rates of
implanon® in the local population, and (c) identify the reasons for removal.
Design and Methods: This was a case note based study where the data
was transferred to a standardised pretested proforma and was analysed by simple
tabulation
Results: The age range of the 106 implanon® users was15.43 years (mean
25.2yrs) and 36. 8% were nulliparous. The preinsertion weight was over 70 kg in
41% cases. Sixty seven percent clients were white Caucasian women, 17% being
Asian and 16% belonged to other ethnic groups. Thirty-three clients were either
lost to follow up or are still continuing to use implanon®. Seventy-three of
these clients had their implanon® removed. Out of these 73 cases 17 cases have
completed full 3 years period; therefore the continuation rate at 3 years was
23.2%. The continuation rate at the end of 1 year was 64.4% and at 2 years was
37%. Out of 56 cases who had removal of implanon1 before recommended 3 years
period the commonest reason was for bleeding irregularity in 22(39 %) cases, and
to plan pregnancy in 9 (16%)cases. No failure of the method was found.
Conclusions: Implanon® is a highly effective method of contraception,
which is relatively free of serious side effects. However, in our experience,
continuation rate at 3-year was only 23.2%, with irregular bleeding being the
main reason for discontinuation. Resolution of this difficulty is likely to lead
to enhanced compliance.
