When inserting a contraceptive implant, a small rod is placed under the skin of the upper arm. The implant is inserted using an applicator containing the rod. At the end of the applicator is a needle that is slid under the skin, after which the rod is inserted through this needle. The needle creates a small wound, which is sometimes closed with a surgical adhesive strip, though a standard bandage is often sufficient.
A contraceptive implant can remain in place for 3 years; after these 3 years, it must be removed.
During removal, the skin is first numbed with a local anesthetic, after which a small incision (opening) is made at the site where the implant is located under the skin. The rod can then be pushed out through the skin. Sometimes a second incision is necessary because the implant may have become encapsulated. The wound is closed using a surgical adhesive strip or a suture.
