NORPLANT
The Norplant method is six small flexible rods filled with a hormone that are placed just under the skin on the inside of your upper arm. They prevent pregnancy by slowly releasing the hormone which has several effects:
- The release of an egg is prevented.
- The cervical mucous becomes hostile to the passage of sperm.
- The lining of the uterus becomes unfavorable to the attachment of a fertilized egg.
Advantages include:
- 99.7% effectiveness
- One insertion and you don't have to think about birth control for five years.
- Independent of partner cooperation.
- Menstrual bleeding is usually less.
Disadvantages include:
- High initial cost (up to $500-$700).
- Irregular bleeding is common especially in the first six months of use.
- If you raise your arm, the implants may be noticeable.
- Removal is much harder than insertion.
- No prevention from sexually transmitted diseases.
Side effects: Irregular Periods Norplant is quite likely to cause very irregular periods. 40% of women have no periods, some women have longer periods, and some women have bleeding between periods. This is normal and to be expected. It is not dangerous. However, if you do not like this, there are drugs that you can take to develop a more acceptable pattern of bleeding. As time goes on your periods may become more regular. 25% of the women who have Norplant removed early do so because of changes in bleeding.
Depression And Premenstrual Symptoms May Change Depression and PMS may become better or worse. If so, your Norplant implants may be responsible.