Picture this, you recently got your Implanon. So you start planning for a romantic getaway with your partner. But, a fear lingers through your mind, “ is it too early?” If this is you, then you’re not alone.
So, the main question arises,” when can I have unprotected sex after getting Implanon?”
The simple answer to this is to wait for one to two weeks to be absolutely sure. However, it does vary depending on the period during which you placed it.
It’s considered the best option to use barrier methods eg: condoms, during the first one or two weeks after getting the Implanon to absolutely protect yourself from unwanted pregnancy. However, if you place it during the first 5 days of your period, you can have unprotected sex right away.
I’m sure this much information isn’t enough. So, Want to know more? Keep reading.
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When can I have unprotected sex after getting Implanon?
The idea of having unprotected sex right after placing Implanon may seem quite tempting. But it’s best to think it through. The ideal time for having sex actually differs in accordance with the period during which you placed it.
If you placed the Implanon during the first 5 days of your period, then you can rest assured. Thats’ because you can ave unprotected sex immediately after the placement. Implanon tend to act immediately if placed during this time.
If you had not placed Implanon during the first 5 days of your period, then you will have to wait for a week or two. This is to ensure the hormonal action of Implanon kicks in. Only then it can protect you from unwanted pregnancy.
So, should you absolutely abstain from sex during this period? No, you can have sex during this time but you must ensure the use of other methods of contraception eg: condoms.
Now that you know about the ideal time of having sex after getting Implanon, aren’t you a bit curious regarding the basics of this contraceptive? If yes, go through the next segment to learn all about Implanon.
Implanon – Basics You Need to Know
Implanon is a hormonal implant containing only progesterone inserted into your arms. It is inserted subdermally, which is right underneath your skin. The progesterone hormone thickens the mucous of the cervix making it difficult for sperm to pass through.
Progesterone also thins out the mucous of the body of the uterus. This is where the implantation of the fetus normally takes place. So, on the off chance that sperm does manage to fertilize the ovum, the implantation can’t happen.
Naturally, the main focus for placing IUD is, “ when can I have unprotected sex after getting Implanon?”. It’s important to know that the released hormone will take about a week to perform its function. So, precautions should be exercised during this period.
How is Implanon Inserted?
Implanon is subdermally placed in your arms. Before the procedure, you will have to undergo a pregnancy test. The doctor may also perform a physical examination to ensure your body is ready for the strain.
After the initial examinations, your doctor will create an aseptic environment by cleaning your arm area. Then they will insert the Implanon with an applicator. You will feel some pressure and discomfort in the area after the placement of the Implanon.
The doctor will place a bandage over the site of insertion. Regarding this bandage, one question comes to mind, ‘how long do you have to keep a bandage on after the implant?’ The answer to that is anywhere between one to five days. You should contact with your physician if you have pain, bleeding or the wound doesn’t heal within five days.
How does Implanon Work?
It’s necessary to know a bit about fertilization and the menstrual cycle before you dive into how Implanon prevents pregnancy. The menstrual cycle is a process by which the uterine lining is discharged when there’s no fertilization. This happens under the influence of the hormones estrogen and progesterone,
And, fertilization is the process by which the female gamete ovum and male gamete sperm, fuse together to form the zygote. This zygote divides and grows to be the fetus later on.
Now, Implanons are implants that contain only progesterone. Progesterone as you know is one of the two hormones responsible for menstruation and female fertility. Implanon acts on pregnancy in two ways:
- It inhibits the release of the ovum from the ovary. Ovum is the female reproductive gamete cell or in simple terms, the ‘egg cell’. This fuses which sperm of a male to form a zygote.
- It thickens the uterine endometrium. This creates a hostile environment for male sperms, so they cannot enter or survive.
As you may have guessed, it probably requires some time for the Implanon to cause the hormonal changes necessary for the prevention of fertilization and pregnancy.
So while thinking about when can I have unprotected sex after getting Implanon, you must take these parameters into consideration.
Preparation Before Taking Implanon
A few steps to be followed before placing Implanon include:
- Abstain yourself from having any unprotected sex for at least 2 weeks before the placement of Implanon. Remember, testing negative for pregnancy is mandatory to get the Implanon placed.
- Women who are already using some other contraceptives eg: Oral Contraceptive Pill, are advised to consult with their doctor.
- Take the pregnancy test before the procedure.
Women eligible for taking Implanon are:
- Women having regular periods
- No abnormality in bleeding
- Consent of both husband and wife
- Having at least 2 living children.
- Has the necessary education to check up on the tail of the implant on a regular basis
- Has access to a hospital nearby
- Age: above 30
- No pelvic inflammatory diseases.
Benefits of Implanon
When can I have unprotected sex after getting Implanon? The most common query of most females, the answer to it denotes a gap of 1/2 weeks before you get the benefit of the contraceptive.
So, why use Implanon when I can get other contraceptive methods to act immediately? Why are Implanon or hormonal contraceptives considered one of the best contraceptives? The answer is:
- They have a high rate of effectiveness, a recent survey showed a 99% effectiveness in preventing pregnancy.
- Once placed, you can rest assured for three years
- You don’t have to worry about losing your fertility, Implanon action will cease within 1 or 2 weeks after removal.
- Cost-Effective
- Reduces Painful periods, premenstrual syndrome, and acne in some people.
Adverse Effects of Implanon
Although it has many benefits, there are some side effects as well. Some adverse effects of Implanon are as follows:
- Skin problems: Acne may improve in some people and it can also be worsened in some.
- There remains a chance of weight gain for hormonal changes. Though this change has not been proved exclusively for Implanon.
- The user may experience heaviness, pain, and bleeding during the initial days after placing Implanon. Remember, Implanon is a foreign substance and hence requires some time for your body to adjust to it.
- Headache, breast pain and mood changes have been found to be associated with Implanon.
- There might be bruising, redness, and swelling at the site of inoculation.
- You are likely to experience a change in bleeding patterns.
It includes:
- Lighter, less painful periods
- Complete stoppage of periods
- Spotting may be experienced that is, excess bleeding outside the regular menstrual cycle.
- Some women may also experience irregularly dark, heavy periods.
FAQs
Can I have unprotected sex immediately after placing the Implanon?
Answer: You can have sex immediately after placing if you have the Implanon placed within 5 days of getting your period. If your timing doesn’t coincide with the first 5 days, you have to abstain from sex for 1-2 weeks.
How does it feel after getting an Implanon inserted?
Answer: You will feel pinching, and stinging after placing the Implanon. You will also feel some pain, redness, or swelling along with some discharge during the initial days after getting the Implanon.
I am experiencing a lighter period after getting Implanon. Am I pregnant?
Answer: The Implanon acts to prevent the access of sperm to the ovum. That is, it prevents the fusion of male and female gametes and inhibits the formation of the fetus. Hence, it’s highly unlikely that you will get pregnant while having the implant placed.
The change in your bleeding pattern is likely caused by hormonal changes of the Implanon, an adverse effect that doesn’t denote pregnancy.
Will I lose my fertility after placing Implanon?
Answer: NO! Implanon is a safe, reversible method of contraception. If you decide on bearing a child and removing Implanon, you will return to normal within a week or two.
Can drugs inhibit the action of Implanon?
Answer: Yes, a few drugs have been identified that can stop the Implanon from working. These include:
- Medicines for HIV, epilepsy, and tuberculosis
- Antibiotics: rifabutin, rifampicin
- Some complementary remedies.
Under which circumstances of using Implanon should I visit a doctor?
Answer; While implants are mostly safe, inoculation into the uterus is a medical emergency. You should visit your doctor if you experience symptoms such as:
- Fever
- Abdominal Pain
- Abnormal Bulky discharge from your vagina
- Pruritis or itching all over your body
Can food affect birth control?
Answer: Some food substances that can inhibit birth control includes:
- Grapefruit
- Herbal Supplements
- Activated charcoals
Final Word
Immediately after placing Implanon, the very first thing you should consult with your doctor is, “ When Can I Have Unprotected Sex After Getting Implanon?”. As a hormonal contraceptive, you must allow the implant to make the necessary changes in your body. So, abstinence for a week or two or protected sex is the best option to go for.
Hormonal implants have earned a reputation as one of the best contraceptive methods. While its usage may seem simple, beware of its adverse effects and follow the advice of your doctor to enjoy healthy, carefree sex life.
