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Birth ControlNorplantNorplant, approved by the FDA in 1990, and the newer Norplant 2, approved in 1996, is the third type of progestin only contraceptive. Made up of matchstick-sized rubber rods, this contraceptive is surgically implanted under the skin of the upper arm, where it steadily releases the contraceptive steroid levonorgestrel.The six-rod Norplant provides protection for up to five years (or until it is removed), while the two-rod Norplant 2 protects for up to three years. Norplant failures are rare, but are higher with increased body weight. The overall failure rate is 0.09% when used as directed. Some women may experience inflammation or infection at the site of the implant. Other side effects include menstrual cycle changes, weight gain, and breast tenderness. Another important but less obvious change may be loss of bone mass.
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