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IUD and Implant – Your Contraception Choices

Dr Imasha Perera is excited to offer IUD (Intrauterine Device) Contraception services at HealthMint Cranbourne

QUICK FACTS about IUD

– IUDs are more than 99% effective in pregnancy prevention
– IUDs last for 5-10 years, depending on the type
– IUDs can be inserted at any time during your menstrual cycle, as long as you’re not pregnant 
– Dr Imasha inserts IUDs under a cervical block (local anaesthetic for cervix) to reduce pain during the insertion procedure
– IUDs can be removed at any time by a specially trained doctor. 
– When removed, it is possible to get pregnant straight away.
– IUDs can help heavy and painful periods, your periods can get lighter or even stop altogether after it’s been fitted.

There are 3 types of IUDs available:

  1. Mirena IUD –  It slowly releases the hormone progestogen into your uterus (womb). This stops the sperm and egg meeting and also thickens the cervical mucus which makes it more difficult for sperm to reach an egg & survive. It can also stop a fertilised egg from being able to implant itself. 
  2. Kyleena IUD – Smaller in size and works similar to Mirena but has a lower dose of progestogen. This is a great option for those who have never given birth. 
  3. Copper IUD – works in a similar way to Mirena but instead of releasing the hormone progestogen it releases Copper into the womb. This is a good option for women who want to avoid any type of hormone. 
Dr Imasha holding the IUD contraceptive

Contraceptive Implant and Removal performed by Doctors consulting in Cranbourne and Croydon

A contraceptive Implant is a reversible form of contraception, shaped like a small match sized rod. It releases a hormone named etonogestrel, which acts similarly to progesterone. Progesterone is a naturally occurring hormone produced by a woman’s ovaries. By releasing etonogestrel, the Contraceptive Implant will stop your body from releasing an egg each month, and will thicken the cervical mucus (at the entrance to the womb) to block sperm.

How effective is the Contraceptive Implant?

Very! In fact, the Contraceptive Implant is more than 99.9% effective.

Where is it inserted?

The Contraceptive Implant is inserted in the upper arm, under the skin

What is involved in inserting the Contraceptive Implant?

First, your GP will discuss your unique situation, to determine that the Contraceptive Implant is indeed the most suited form of contraception for you. When you attend your appointment to have your Contraceptive Implant inserted, the area will be cleaned, and a local anaesthetic applied in order to prevent pain and discomfort. The device will then be inserted. Inserting may cause some soreness and bruising, but this will settle within a few days. The good news is, that it can be left there for up to three years before needing to be removed or replaced!

When does it start working?

This depends on when it is inserted. Your GP will discuss it further with you to make sure you know when you are protected. Generally, if inserted within the first five days of a normal period, then it will provide contraception immediately. If inserted at other times in your cycle, it takes seven days to start working effectively.

What is involved in removing the Contraceptive Implant?

At removal, your GP or nurse will inject anaesthetic at the site of the implant, make a cut into your skin and remove the rod. Sometimes, the rod can be deeper than usual, or more difficult to remove, and this can make the procedure more involved and time consuming.

Can I have it removed if I don’t like it?

Yes, it can be removed at any time. Generally side effects would settle within three months, so it’s advisable to try to keep it in for the first three months. When removed, any side effects you may have experienced should stop within the next few weeks.

How much does the procedure cost?

The doctors that consult at HealthMint charge a gap of $70 for the Contraceptive Implant insertion and $120 for removal. For Health Care Card holders the reduced gap is $35 for insertion and $60 for removal. This covers the cost of all materials used, your consultation at the time of insertion to discuss side effects and maintenance, as well as follow-up to assess the area of insertion/removal.

Some of the things we can help with
  • Insertion of the Contraceptive Implant
  • Removal of the Contraceptive Implant
  • Discussion of various forms of contraception
Book your appointment now

Questions? Call one of our friendly receptionists on 03 5611 3365

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Have a look at our Family Planning and Pregnancy service page for further information.

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