Hello and welcome to the zero to finals podcast.

My name is Tom and in this episode I'm going to be talking to you about the progestogen-only implant.

And you can find written notes on this topic at zero-definals.com slash implant

or in the contraception section of the zero-de definals obstetrics and gynecology book.

So let's get straight into it.

The progestogen-only implant is a small, flexible, plastic rod, about four centimetres long

that's placed in the upper arm beneath the skin and above the subcutaneous tissue.

It slowly releases progestogen into the systemic circulation.

The implant lasts for three years before it needs replacing.

The progestogen-only implant is more than 99% effective with perfect and typical use.

Once it's in place, there's no room for user error. It will keep working.

It does need to be replaced every three years to remain effective.

There are very few contraindications and risks to having the implant.

The only UK-MEC-4 criteria for the implant is active breast cancer.

Next plenon is the implant used in the UK.

It contains 68 milligrams of etonogestrel.

It's licensed for use between the ages of 18 and 40 years.

Let's talk about the mechanism of action. The progestogen-only implant works by inhibiting

ovulation, thickening the cervical mucus and altering the endometrium to make it less accepting of implantation.

Next let's talk about inserting the implant and removing the implant.

Inserting the implant on day one to five of the menstrual cycle provides immediate protection.

Insertion after day five of the menstrual cycle requires

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