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A 10‐year follow‐up study of contraceptive Norplant implants
Author(s) -
Du M.K.,
Chow L.P.,
Zheng H.M.,
Chen C.H.C.
Publication year - 2000
Publication title -
international journal of gynecology and obstetrics
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.895
H-Index - 97
eISSN - 1879-3479
pISSN - 0020-7292
DOI - 10.1016/s0020-7292(99)00214-3
Subject(s) - medicine , levonorgestrel , pregnancy , implant , family planning , obstetrics , population , gynecology , contraceptive implant , dentistry , research methodology , surgery , environmental health , genetics , biology
Objectives: To evaluate the long‐term efficacy and health problems associated with Norplant implants and re‐implants after 5 full years of first implants. Method: From 1984 to 1988, 1657 women accepted first implants of Type I and Type II of Norplant, and 394 first acceptors had a re‐implant, at a clinic for study. The clinical records and annual follow‐up data of acceptors were analyzed. The life‐table technique was the main method used. Results: The continuation rates were very high. The cumulative pregnancy rates at 1, 3 and 5 full years of use were 0.0%, 0.1% and 0.7%, respectively. Users with heavier body weight had higher pregnancy rates. The rate of menstrual disturbances peaked at 73% after 3 months and consistently decreased to 20% at 5 years of use. Rates of menstrual disturbances associated with re‐implants were much lower. Conclusion: Norplant is extremely effective and safe for long‐term use.