Implanon is a contraceptive bar, injected into the arm. Once in place, it protects against pregnancy for up to three years.
” The implant is an extremely effective method of contraception. The pregnancy rate associated with the use of Implanon is very low. Less than 1 in 1000 women using it over 3 years will become pregnant.“
Yet, over 10 women reported unintended pregnancy between January 2015 and September 2016. Power Solicitors are investigating several unintended pregnancies on behalf of clients. Clients were shocked to find out they were pregnant. They believed they had chosen the most reliable method of contraception.
Failed Contraceptive And Implanon NXT
Our recent investigation showed 12 women reported pregnancy with Implanon NXT report to the HPRA.
There is no obligation on GPs to report any unintended pregnancies. As such, it is may be that the number of women effected is much higher in reality.
Implanon Contraceptive Bar
Failure of Contraceptive Device
Defects with the old version of the device are well known. A Channel 4 documentary exposed the problem some years ago. Several women in Ireland and UK became pregnant while using the implant device. It was thought the syringe used for inserting the implant may have been faulty. It gave the false impression that the device was injected where in fact it remained in the syringe.
Implanon was replaced with Implanon NXT in Ireland and Nexplanon in UK. This new edition contained a new syringe.
Figures from 2016 show that over 45 women became pregnant with Implanon or Implanon NXT.
Side Effects of Implanon
The side effects of Implanon are well documented in the patient information leaflet. In relation to pregnancy the manufacturer states:
“When you use Implanon NXT you do not have to remember to take a pill everyday. This is one of the reasons that it is very reliable (over 99% effective). If in rare cases the implant is not inserted correctly or not inserted at all you may not be protected against pregnancy.”
Merck Sharpe & Dohme, the manufacturers of the device, released a statement that
“If the implant is not inserted in accordance with the instructions on the correct day, this may well result in an unintended pregnancy. In addition, no contraceptive is 100% effective.”
There has also been complications where the device traveled from the arm to an artery. These complications are rare.
Implanon NXT Complications
It is traumatic to discover you are pregnant when it is not planned. Even more so, where you believe you have taken the most reliable contraceptive protection. We have experience in these issues and can guide you on the right path.
If you have suffered complications with the contraceptive bar, speak with Melanie Power in confidence on 061 513 055.
If you prefer, you can email Melanie direct on [email protected].
Contraceptive Bar Advice
