Norplant

Norplant is one of the newest and statistically most effective methods of birth control available to women today. Six matchstick-size implants are inserted in the skin of a woman’s inner arm under a local anesthetic. These sticks release a continuous low dosage of a synthetic hormone which inhibits ovulation and also thickens the cervical mucous. Norplant is effective for five years, but may be removed earlier if desired. Norplant is available in the Williamstown area for a cost of approximately $500. The Health Center can provide more information on Norplant insertion.

Advantages:

• Norplant does not involve any interruption between foreplay and intercourse.
• Effectiveness rates are statistically higher than those for female sterilization.
• Unlike with oral contraceptives, there is no need to take a pill at a given time each day.

Disadvantages:

• Side effects include prolonged menstrual bleeding, spotting between periods or skipped periods. Sometimes these patterns are combined. It is not unusual for a woman to experience a small amount of bleeding each day while using Norplant.
• Other possible side effects may include: headache, nervousness, nausea, dermatitis, acne, change in appetite, weight gain, breast tenderness, hair growth or loss, and enlargement of the ovaries and/or fallopian tubes.
• There is no refund if a woman decides to have Norplant removed early.