A randomized multicenter study comparing the efficacy and bleeding pattern of a single-rod (Implanon®) and a six-capsule (Norplant®) hormonal contraceptive implant

New Zealand women’s experience during their first year of Jadelle® contraceptive implant

“…There is a common perception that irregular bleeding is the most common pattern although studies acknowledge that women may settle into a pattern of regular period-like bleeding. 4,5 The one in five amenorrhoea rate is higher than in other studies that report 10% in the first year of use. 5,6 Study participants who continued to experience prolonged or irregular bleeding became increasingly dissatisfied over time.…”

“…4,5 The one in five amenorrhoea rate is higher than in other studies that report 10% in the first year of use. 5,6 Study participants who continued to experience prolonged or irregular bleeding became increasingly dissatisfied over time. As with other studies, 5,7,8 bleeding problems were the most common reason for removal.…”

“…4 This follow-up study, like other studies, showed that bleeding patterns tended to stabilise with contraceptive implant use from 6 months onwards. 5 The commonest reported bleeding pattern was monthly bleeds similar to a normal period. There is a common perception that irregular bleeding is the most common pattern although studies acknowledge that women may settle into a pattern of regular period-like bleeding.…”

“…5,6 Study participants who continued to experience prolonged or irregular bleeding became increasingly dissatisfied over time. As with other studies, 5,7,8 bleeding problems were the most common reason for removal. Ten percent of participants stated that bleeding problems, either alone or with hormonal side effects, were the reason they sought removal of their implant.…”

“…14,15 A study of women using Norplant® found a 14% discontinuation at two years of use for bleeding problems. 5 At five years, 55% of women were still using the Jadelle® implant, giving a cumulative 5-year life table discontinuation rates for menstrual problems of 16.4/100. 7 More recent studies such as the Choice project had similar discontinuation rates to those of this study with 17% at 1 year for Implanon® users.…”