Sexual Health: Your Guide to Birth Control: Norplant

Birth control is a way for men and women to prevent pregnancy. There are many different methods of birth control; some types also protect against sexually transmitted diseases.

Norplant is a birth control method used by women. Six match-sized capsules are surgically implanted underneath the skin of the underside of the upper arm. The capsules contain a hormone called "progestin," which slowly releases into the bloodstream and prevents pregnancy for up to 5 years.

Norplant does not protect against STDs. To protect yourself from sexually transmitted diseases, use a male condom each time you and your partner have sex.

Norplant is no longer available for use in the United States. It was voluntarily removed from the market in July 2002.

How Do I Get Norplant?

A doctor must insert Norplant. The procedure takes about 15 minutes. First, your doctor will use a shot to numb the underside of the upper arm. A metal device is then used to make a small incision just under the skin. The capsules are inserted in a fan shape. The incision is then covered with gauze and a bandage. Stitches are not required.

Once the capsules have been inserted under the skin, no additional steps are needed to prevent pregnancy.

How Soon Does Norplant Work?

Protection begins 24 hours after Norplant has been inserted if done during the first 7 days of the menstrual cycle.

How Effective Is Norplant?

Norplant is over 99% effective in preventing pregnancy.

Can Anyone Use Norplant?

No. Norplant is not recommended for everyone. You should not use Norplant if you have:

• Unexplained vaginal bleeding
• Liver disease
• Breast cancer
• Blood clots in the legs, lungs or eyes

What Are the Side Effects of Norplant?

Norplant can cause a number of side effects, including:

• Irregular menstrual periods or no periods at all
• Headaches
• Nervousness
• Depression
• Dizziness
• Acne
• Changes in appetite
• Weight gain
• Excessive growth of facial and body hair

Having irregular menstrual periods is the most common side effect and occurs most often during the first year after Norplant has been inserted. You should discuss the potential side effects of Norplant with your doctor.

Can Norplant Be Removed Early?

Yes. Norplant can be removed any time after it has been inserted. Fertility is restored within 5-14 days after Norplant is removed.

The Contraceptive Foundation is a nonprofit foundation that has established a Norplant Removal Program aimed at helping uninsured and underinsured women gain access to removal of the Norplant system. Women considering the Contraception Foundation Norplant Removal program should call 1-800-760-9030 to determine if they meet the Contraception Foundation's eligibility criteria.

What Are the Advantages of Using Norplant?

The advantages of using Norplant include:

• You don't have to remember to take it every day or use it each time you have sex.
• It provides long-term protection.
• It doesn't interfere with sexual activity.
• It's over 99% effective.

What Are the Disadvantages of Using Norplant?

Disadvantages of using Norplant include:

• It is expensive to have inserted.
• It can cause harmful side effects.
• It does not provide protection against sexually transmitted diseases.
• Menstrual periods are irregular.
• Removal may be difficult.

 

Reviewed by the doctors at The Cleveland Clinic Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology.