The contraceptive implant is a birth control method that is widely preferred by women all around the world. This method includes a plastic rod that is placed under the skin of the patient’s upper arm. The contraceptive implant is %99 effective and is a widely preferred method of birth control. The small rod that has been placed under the skin releases progestogen and is effective for three years unless there are any complications. If any side effects occur caused by the implant, such as hair loss, it can be taken out any time without problems. Many women prefer the contraceptive implant because it is easier to use. It may be hard to remember to take a pill every day at the same time, that is why this method may be more comfortable. Once the contraceptive implant is taken out, the period circle and fertility will go back to their normal state.

A contraceptive implant is suitable for most women. Women who are pregnant, do not want their period circle to change, have serious health conditions such as stages cancer are not fitted for this procedure. This method of protection has many advantages, however there are also many disadvantages that could affect women. Back pains, increased acne, weight gain, headaches, vomiting, nausea, diarrhea, sore breasts are some of these disadvantages. Not every woman who has a contraceptive implant, experiences every single one of these problems. However, since everybody reacts differently to medication, it is always possible to face one of these disadvantages. Apart from these symptoms that can somehow be decreased with medication, there is another disadvantage that might scare patients off: hair loss. Since the contraceptive implant affects hormones, it is possible to lose hair. So yes, the contraceptive implant can cause hair loss. 

 Hair loss caused by contraceptive implants

Birth control methods have different side effects on different people. Whereas some people can have fuller, healthier, and shinier hair, others can experience dullness in hair or even hair loss. It is impossible to say that contraceptive implants absolutely cause hair loss, however it is also impossible to say they do not. So it is important to keep in mind that any kind of birth control can cause any type of side effect. Some people are more sensitive to hormonal changes, which is exactly what birth contraceptive implants do. People who have weak hair or other hair related problems are more prone to hair loss than others. It is always important to remember that there is no definite side effect with medications that affect hormones. Some people may experience little to no side effects at all, whereas others can come to the point where they have to quit.  

According to all of this information, it is possible to say that hair loss is possible, but not everyone has to experience it. Everybody reacts differently to hormone changes. There are many things in the human body that can change because of hormone changes. Hairiness on the body, acne, and hair loss are the most possible ones. Especially women who have a history of hormone-related hair loss in the family should reconsider the implant. Having a background in hair loss makes patients a huge target. Even though the advantages of the contraceptive implant are abundant, hair loss can lead to future problems. Thus, it is best to consult a doctor about family history and choose an alternative birth control method. There are many alternative ways of birth control, each one comes with advantages and disadvantages. Unfortunately, there is no birth control method that has no side effects.

Advantages and Disadvantages of the Contraceptive Implant

The biggest and best advantage of the contraceptive implant is the amount of protection provides. Whereas condoms provide up to %94 protection, the contraceptive implant provides more than %99. So, it can be said that it is almost impossible to get pregnant while using a contraceptive implant. Another big advantage is the usage of it. After getting a contraceptive implant, patients do not have to worry about it for up to three years. Since birth control methods balance hormones, it is possible that present acne problems may decrease. Another big advantage of this birth control method is that it helps with period pain. Some patients even stop getting their period at all. Hair growth or hair loss are both possible. Furthermore, the implant contains only one hormone, which is progestin. There are patients that cannot use birth control methods that contain estrogen. So this is a perfect alternative. 

Even though there are many good effects of the contraceptive implant, there are also side effects. Whereas the contraceptive implant can decrease acne, it can also increase it. It is based on the skin type of the patient. Hair loss is a huge side effect. Another disadvantage of the contraceptive implant is that it does not protect against sexually transmitted infections. Patients may have to use another type of protection, such as condoms unless they are getting tested. In the first months of using the contraceptive implant, patients may face problems such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headaches, stomachaches, etc. It is possible to decrease these symptoms with medications. However, patients should consider switching to another method if the symptoms are getting unbearable. The contraceptive implant can also be affected by certain medications, such as HIV, epilepsy medicines. Patients who use medications alike should reconsider another control method. 

More Information

The advantages and disadvantages of the contraceptive implant are listed above. It can be seen that even though there are great advantages, disadvantages can lead to future problems. The most worrying disadvantage of the contraceptive implant is hair loss for most patients. Hair loss can cause self-esteem issues in women, thus should be taken seriously. Especially patients who have a family member who suffers from hormonal hair loss should consider another alternative method. If patients are unsure whether or not they might experience severe side effects, they should consult a doctor about their worries. It is best to find a birth control method that is effective by talking to a professional. For more information, patients should always contact their doctor.