We Thought the Copper-T Was Our Only Option… Until We Discovered Implanon®

At 34 years of age, Gayathri and Abhay had everything they had dreamed of a wonderful little child, stable careers, and a happy family life.

They both agreed on one important decision.

They wanted to wait at least five years before planning another baby.

Life was busy, and they wanted a contraceptive that was reliable, convenient, and reversible whenever they were ready to expand their family.

So they started exploring their options.

Wherever they went, they heard the same recommendation.

“Why don’t you get a Copper-T or a hormonal IUCD inserted?”

It certainly sounded like the standard choice.

But Gayathri had a concern.

She had always suffered from heavy menstrual bleeding. Her periods were painful, lasted nearly a week, and often left her exhausted.

She worried that some contraceptive methods might make her bleeding even heavier.

Looking at Abhay, she asked,

“Isn’t there another long-term option that’s better suited for me?”

That’s when they visited Dr. Jitha’s Health Lounge.

Discovering Implanon®

After carefully understanding Gayathri’s health, menstrual history, and future pregnancy plans, Dr. Jitha introduced them to a contraceptive they had never heard of before.

Implanon® (Etonogestrel Implant).

A tiny, flexible rod, about the size of a matchstick, that is inserted just beneath the skin of the inner upper arm.

It continuously releases a small amount of hormone that prevents pregnancy.

Dr. Jitha explained something that surprised them.

Although Gayathri wanted contraception for five years, Implanon works for up to three years.

At the end of three years, the implant can simply be removed and replaced with a new one if they still wish to postpone pregnancy.

This meant they could comfortably achieve their five-year family planning goal without worrying about contraception every day.

Even better, Implanon is more than 99% effective, making it one of the most reliable reversible contraceptives available.

Why Was Implanon the Right Choice for Gayathri?

Every woman is different.

Since Gayathri already had heavy periods, Implanon offered an additional benefit.

Many women using Implanon experience:

✔ Lighter periods

✔ Less menstrual bleeding

✔ Shorter periods

✔ Some women may even stop getting periods altogether, which is completely safe while using the implant.

For someone who had struggled with heavy bleeding for years, this was welcome news.

How Is Implanon Inserted?

Many women think it involves surgery.

The reality is much simpler.

The inner side of the upper arm is first cleaned, and a small amount of local anaesthetic is given to numb the area.

Once the skin is numb, a specially designed applicator gently places the implant just beneath the skin.

A small dressing is applied afterwards.

The entire procedure usually takes less than 10 minutes.

There are no stitches, and most women return to work or their daily routine the very same day.

What Happens After Three Years?

This was one of Abhay’s biggest questions.

Dr. Jitha smiled and explained, If you’re still not ready for another baby, we simply remove the old implant and insert a new one during the same visit.

The procedure is quick, simple, and allows women to continue enjoying highly effective contraception for as long as they need.

Can It Be Removed Earlier?

Absolutely.

If Gayathri and Abhay decide they are ready for another baby before three years, the implant can be removed at any time.

One of the greatest advantages is that fertility usually returns quickly after removal, often within a few weeks.

Advantages of Implanon®

• More than 99% effective

• Long-term contraception for up to 3 years

• Can be replaced after 3 years if longer contraception is needed

• No daily pills to remember

• Safe during breastfeeding

• May reduce heavy menstrual bleeding

• Rapid return of fertility after removal

• Completely reversible

• Ideal for busy women and working mothers

Are There Any Disadvantages?

Like every contraceptive method, Implanon has a few possible side effects.

Some women may notice:

• Irregular spotting during the first few months

• Unpredictable bleeding patterns

• Mild headaches

• Breast tenderness

• Mood changes

• Acne in a small number of women

Fortunately, many of these improve with time, and most women are very satisfied with the implant.

Is Implanon Suitable for Everyone?

Not always.

It may not be suitable for women with:

• Current breast cancer

• Certain liver diseases

• Unexplained vaginal bleeding

A consultation with your gynaecologist will help determine whether it is the right contraceptive for you.

Gayathri and Abhay left the consultation feeling confident. The insertion took only a few minutes.

There were no stitches, no hospital stay, and no interruption to their daily lives.

Most importantly, they no longer had to worry about forgetting pills or facing an unplanned pregnancy.

Gayathri was delighted that her periods gradually became lighter, making life much more comfortable.

For Gayathri and Abhay, choosing Implanon wasn’t just about contraception.

It was about choosing freedom, confidence, and peace of mind while keeping the door open for the future.

A Message from Dr. Jitha’s Health Lounge

The best contraceptive is not the one that’s most commonly recommended—it’s the one that best suits your body, your health, and your future plans.

Whether you’re planning to delay pregnancy for three years, five years, or even longer, there are safe and effective options available.

If you’re looking for a convenient, highly effective, and reversible contraceptive, Implanon® may be the perfect choice for you.

Book a consultation at Dr. Jitha’s Health Lounge, where every contraceptive decision is personalised, evidence-based, and centred around your unique needs.