Implants are small plastic rods or capsules, each about the size of a matchstick, that release a progestin hormone into the woman's body. A specifically trained provider performs a minor surgical procedure to place the implants under the skin on the inside of the woman's upper arm. They are suitable for women who want to space births. Since implants do not contain estrogen, they do not decrease production of breast milk and are also suitable for breastfeeding women. They are also a good choice for women who do not want more children but are not ready for sterilization.

Types of implants:

Jadelle: 2 rods, effective for 5 years
Sino-Implant (II): 2 rods, effective for 4 years
Implanon: 1 rod, effective for 3 years (studies are underway to see if it lasts 4 years)
Norplant: 6 capsules, labeled for 5 years of use (large studies have found it is effective for 7 years) (to be discontinuied after 2008).

For more information, see Questions and Answers About Implants from "Implants: The Next Generation," Population Reports issue K-7.

Why Focus on Implants?

Family planning programs around the world are introducing the new one- or two-rod implant systems Implanon, Jadelle, and in some countries Sino-Implant (II). By 2008 Norplant, the 6-capsule implant system, will no longer by available. Like Norplant, the new implants are highly effective and disturb bleeding patterns. Their most important improvement is quicker insertion and removal. Sino-Implant (II) may also cost much less than other implants. This Toolkit provides up-to-date and accurate information on implants, guidance on best practices, and resources and tools to help improve access to and quality of services.

Who Should use this Toolkit?

Program Managers will find information and job aids to help them develop a strategy to respond to the increasing demand for implants.
Providers will find information and job aids to help them counsel clients about implants and safely insert and remove implants.
Policy Makers will find research and information to help set national guidelines about implants and plan for future changes in service delivery.
Logistics Managers will find tools and resources to help maintain a steady flow of supplies and to respond quickly if shortages occur.
Communication Professionals can use these resources to explore strategies, media, and messages about implants for potential users, current users, their partners, and communities.
Trainers can review the latest training techniques for implants and find tools to monitor the progress of trainees.
Researchers can create customized searches for scientific articles, reports, photos and other materials relating to implants.
Implant Users can find answers to common questions about implants and explanations to dispel common myths and misperceptions about this method.

How is this Site Organized?

This site is organized by resources for specific audiences, found in the tabs across the top of the page. You can also access specific topic areas directly from the home page in the left hand column.

What is a Feed?

A Feed, also known as an "RSS Feed," allows you to view the latest research about implants. By subscribing to this feed you will be notifed as soon as this information is posted on the Implants Toolkit Web site.

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