Women's Health

The Norplant System for Contraception

Written by Mark Abell

First introduced in the United States in 1990, the Norplant System (Levonorgestrel) implants quickly gained approval by both the medical community as well as the women who have elected to have them. The implant was developed by Leiras Pharmaceuticals in conjunction with the Population Council of Finland, and has been used in Europe for years before making its way into the mainstream of America. Convenient, and trustworthy, the system offers yet another viable alternative for contraception for the female. Its use has varied, mainly due to the amount of hype it received from the press as well as potential side affects. The Norplant is different from all other forms of birth control, as it (theoretically) offers contraception for a period of about five years.

The Norplant system is a flexible implant, which is inserted into the skin by a qualified physician or surgeon. Each unit contains six capsules containing 36 mg of levonorgaestrel. They are placed on the inner side (medial aspect) of the forearm, making them very difficult to see.

Levonorgestrel is a medication much like that seen in other forms of contraception; it has been thoroughly tested (including the vial in which the medication is incased) for adverse reactions in humans. The medication works by inhibiting ovulation, thickening the cervical mucosa, and decreasing the endometrial lining, all of which play a part in contraception. Thickening of the cervical mucosa, one of the most useful changes that occurs with use of the medication, makes it very difficult for sperm to survive in the environment. Placement of the Norplant System is generally effective within twenty four hours.

As mentioned, there are risks and side effects, but then that is true with all medicines. One important thing to consider is the fact that the medication found in the Norplant system has been shown to decrease total cholesterol; but that finding remains controversial. The system, in and of itself, should not be used (or thought to be used) for that purpose, however. Additionally, as in all contraceptives, the use of such medication should not be considered when breast feeding, as the steroids found in the medications can "leak" into the breast milk. Other more important side effects found with use of the Norplant system are quite similar to other contraceptives, which include weight gain, acne, headaches, mood changes, and nervousness. As with all contraceptives, the risk of "ectopic" pregnancy (a pregnancy outside of the womb, as in the tubes) is a real threat and should be considered real, especially if there is a history of such problems.

The last and possibly most annoying side effect of the Norplant system is bleeding irregularities, which brings some women to change their minds and have it removed. Most commonly, there are longer menstrual periods; but the amount of bleeding is sometimes decreased. Irregular bleeding does seem to "subside" after the first year of use, so if you want to "hang in there" you might be able to over come that problem. One point to mention is that there are no other complications associated with the bleeding problems; women are advised to discuss this with their physician. In fact, most physicians offer a patient counseling period prior to offering the Norplant as there are side effects, all of which should be thoroughly addressed and questioned before using the system. Be informed. It is your body.

Cost is always a factor. One needs to weigh the differences between other forms of birth control. Generally speaking (and these numbers are bound to vary), the insertion costs about $150-250.00 and the Norplant can cost as much as $400.00. Given that it can last up to five years, it might be a bargain, considering other forms of birth control.

As with any form of birth control, talk with your doctor. There are other forms, such as the pill, injections every three months, the diaphragm, amongst others. It will be prudent to talk the options over with someone who you can trust, as well as your partner or husband. By all means, stay informed.

For more information about the Norplant System, check out the following URL's:

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