Examining the efficacy, safety, and patient acceptability of the etonogestrel implantable contraceptive

Review

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Author: Heather Hohmann

Published Date July 2009 Volume 2009:3 Pages 205 - 211

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.2147/PPA.S4299

Heather Hohmann

Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA

Abstract: Contraceptive implants provide long-acting, highly effective reversible contraception. The etonogestrel implant (ENG implant) is a single rod implant that offers three years of efficacy. The ENG implant was designed to provide contraceptive efficacy by inhibiting ovulation and Pearl Index scores reported for this method are similar to other long-acting reversible contraception as well as similar to sterilization. The implant has been shown to be safe during breast feeding and may improve symptoms of dysmenorrhea and endometriosis. Irregular bleeding patterns can be expected with the device’s use and should be addressed in order to decrease rates of discontinuation.

Keywords: contraception, Implanon^®, progestin-only, ENG-implant