Maximum effectiveness is only achieved when contraceptives are used consistently and correctly. Norplant looks like six little matchsticks, which are implanted beneath the skin in a woman's arm. It works similarly to birth control pills. Instead of taking a pill every day, the implants release small amounts of hormone into the woman's body. Norplant protects a woman against pregnancy for five years.
Convenience is the biggest advantage of the implant.
Because the implants contain only progestin and not estrogen, there are usually fewer side effects than with the pill. Many users report a lighter menstrual flow and less menstrual cramping. The thickened cervical mucus that results from the implant has a protective effect against pelvic inflammatory disease. Users may experience a change in patterns of menstrual bleeding, such as spotting between periods, lengthened periods or no periods at all. Norplant should not be used by women with acute liver disease, breast cancer, blood clots or unexplained vaginal bleeding, nor should they be used by women who are breast-feeding or those who may possibly be pregnancy.