Implanon is a newly approved form of birth control, but it’s not a new drug—not really. It’s a progestin-only product that inhibits ovulation, increases cervical mucus viscosity and reduces the thickness of the uterine lining, making it a triple-threat against pregnancy. What’s different? The format. It’s the first single-rod, under-the-skin implant on the market. Norplant II, a.k.a. Jadelle, is down to two rods. So Implanon is one tiny matchsticks versus two on your inner arm. What’s the difference? Visibility. Norplant users’ complaints often include the veinlike appearance of the rods themselves. Implanon, by contrast, is pretty much invisible, but like all implants, you should be able to feel it if you run your fingers over the skin.
 By the time you read this, gynos in Charlottesville should be offering the teeny hormone implant known as Implanon.
|
Interested? Gynecologists in Charlottesville should be offering Implanon now; clinicians at UVA’s Womens’ Place underwent training in March. “It’s a good contraceptive alternative for women who can’t take estrogen, women over 35 and smokers, since it’s progestin only,” says Yvonne Newberry of the Womens’ Place. Upsides? It doesn’t appear to cause much weight gain, and no bone thinning. Downsides? It can cause irregular bleeding and totally disrupt your cycle, Newberry advises.—Katherine Cox