Understanding Side Effects After Implant Removal: What You Should Know

Many women choose contraceptive implants as an effective method of contraception and for their convenience but there may come a time when you want yours taken out due to personal preference, wanting to start a family, or experiencing symptoms that don't agree with you, and knowing what possible side effects of the implant removal could be is important in helping you prepare and feel confident through this process.

If you are thinking about having your implant removed in London, the best way to ensure that you receive safe and chosen care throughout the implant removal process is to see an experienced healthcare provider who is skilled in working with women in their family planning choices. 

What is a Contraceptive Implant? 

A contraceptive implant is simply a small, flexible rod placed under the skin in the upper arm that releases hormones to prevent pregnancy, and usually lasts for many years. Although an incredibly effective method of contraception, some women decide they want to have their implant removed for many reasons such as side effects, changing lifestyle or plans for family growth.

An experienced provider of contraception can evaluate your current health and recommend what next steps may be appropriate after the contraceptive implant removal.

Typical Side Effects Associated with Implant Removal

  

While the majority of women experience minimal negative side effects [after] having an implant removed, there are some possibilities that can occur from an adjustment to hormone levels.

  

1) Hormonal Fluctuation

  

After removal of a contraceptive implant, a woman’s [sex] hormone levels will return to baseline (normal). These changes may produce:  

• Mood swings  
• Tiredness  
• Mild headaches  
• Tenderness of breasts  

Typically, these effects will resolve over the course of a few weeks.

  

2) Menstrual Cycle Irregularities

  

After the removal of a contraceptive implant, women may experience menstrual cycle irregularities, including:  

• Heavier than normal periods  
• Delayed menstrual periods  
• Spotting between menstrual periods  
• Cramping  

Typically, menstrual cycle irregularities will correct by themselves over time. If the irregularities persist, your family planning doctor can help by suggesting possible options.

  

3) Restored Fertility

  

After having the implant removed, women's fertility can return very quickly, often within only a few days. If you do not want to become pregnant, you should see your primary health care provider right away to obtain a prescription for another form of contraceptive.

  

4) Mild Bruising or Tenderness

  

The site where the implant was located after the removal process may feel sore to the touch for several days. Mild bruising, swelling and/or redness is common at the removal site and will resolve quickly with proper care.  

5) Emotional and Physical Adjustments

  

Many women will have short-term emotional side effects during the time in which their hormonal levels are being adjusted. Women may also have changes in their appetite and levels of physical energy as well as an increase in acne breakouts.

When Should You Get Medical Attention?

Although complications are not very common, you should call your physician if you experience: 

• Severe Pain
• Heavy Bleeding 
• Signs of Infection
• Continuous Numbness
• Fever/Swelling

Your physician or other healthcare provider who specializes in contraceptive implants will assess your symptoms and provide for your healing.

The Importance of Having Professional Help to Remove the Contraceptive Implant

A trained medical professional should remove the contraceptive implant. Removal by an untrained individual increases the chance of infection and nerve injury.

Many women in London use family planning service clinics to remove their contraceptive implants because they can provide:

• Safe implant removal
• Individualised contraceptive method information
• Pregnancy Planning Services
• Lifetime Reproductive Health Maintenance

Selecting a family planning general practitioner allows you to ensure both your short and long-term health are considered when deciding how to remove the implant.

Objectives of the Family Planning Health Provider After Implant Removal 

After your contraceptive implant has been removed, your family planning health provider will discuss which contraception methods or fertility plans may be best for you. These may include:

• Combined Hormonal Methods Condoms and Birth Control Pills
• IUD's
• Non Hormonal Methods of Birth Control
• Pregnancy Planning Services

When working with an experienced family planning physician, you will have the information necessary to make educated decisions concerning your reproductive health.

Preparing for implant removal

It is often helpful to prepare beforehand as this will help to calm any anxiety and help speed up the recovery process. Here are some simple tips for preparing for implant removal:

1. Wear comfortable clothes that allow you easy access to your arms.

2. Keep the insertion area clean after the procedure

3. Follow post-removal care instructions correctly

4. Discuss any concerns with your doctor before the procedure

Implant Removal Procedures

An implant removal procedure is generally quick and performed using local anaesthetic. 

Choosing the best Implant Removal Clinic in London

When choosing a clinic for your implant removal, you should think about;

* The experience of the medical team

* The patient reviews

* The family planning experience of the medical staff

* How the consultation process is conducted clearly

* The quality of the aftercare provided after your implant has been removed.

A professional clinic will always place the comfort of their patients first. They will give you details on the process and what to expect.

Frequently asked questions

1. How long do the side effects last after removal of an implant?

Most of the side effects experienced after the removal of an implant are temporary; most side effects will improve over the course of a couple of weeks as your body stabilizes its hormone levels.

2. Can I get pregnant right away after removing an implant?

Yes, you can become pregnant very quickly after the removal of your implant, sometimes within days.

3. Is removing an implant painful?

Most of the time, implant removals are performed using local anaesthetic; therefore, the amount of discomfort experienced during the procedure is minimal. It is usual to experience soreness after the procedure for a short time.

4. Do I need to see a family planning GP after implant removal?

Yes, seeing at family planning GP will help to monitor your recovery after the removal of an implant, as well as discuss any future contraceptive or fertility options that may be available to you.

5. What if I have significant symptoms after having something removed?

If you see or have these problems, you need to seek medical help:

* Severe Pain

* Heavy Bleeding

* Swelling

* Infection

Final Thoughts

When you are aware of the potential complications associated with implant removals, and how they may affect your recovery, you can make informed choices about your healthcare. If you're considering switching birth control or trying to become pregnant, it is highly recommended that you consult with your physician. 

Doctor Lisa in London provides compassionate care, personalized recommendations and experienced reproductive healthcare services for all of your family planning needs.