This site is intended for healthcare professionals

CPD
CPD
Pro
Pro
Sign in
Go to /sign-in page

You can view 5 more pages before signing in

Go to /pro/cpd-dashboard page

This page is worth 0.05 CPD credits. CPD dashboard

Go to /account/subscription-details page

This page is worth 0.05 CPD credits. Upgrade to Pro

Side effects

Last reviewed dd mmm yyyy. Last edited dd mmm yyyy

Authoring team

The unwanted effects of Norplant are manifold, and in one study nearly half of the implanted population considered removal because of:

  • irregular bleeding - the most commonly reported side effect, ranging from prolonged bleeding to amenorrhoea
  • headache occurs in 25-50% - this is the cause of 3% of Norplant removals - if migraine develops or worsens then removal of Norplant should be considered
  • local reactions: - irritation at the site } increasing the incidence - infection } of pain in the implanted - extrusion } arm - reversible hyperpigmentation over the tubes - unaesthetic appearance of implant site
  • weight gain
  • breast tenderness
  • mood changes
  • acne
  • nausea
  • dizziness
  • hair growth

Women with the implant are placed upon a register so that they can be contacted if unwanted effects occur.

Create an account to add page annotations

Create a free account

Annotations allow you to add information to this page that would be handy to have on hand during a consultation. E.g. a website or number. This information will always show when you visit this page.

The content herein is provided for informational purposes and does not replace the need to apply professional clinical judgement when diagnosing or treating any medical condition. A licensed medical practitioner should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions.

Connect

Copyright 2024 Oxbridge Solutions Limited, a subsidiary of OmniaMed Communications Limited. All rights reserved. Any distribution or duplication of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited. Oxbridge Solutions receives funding from advertising but maintains editorial independence.