Implanon is a small contraceptive rod inserted under the skin of your upper arm, releasing hormones that prevent pregnancy for up to three years. At Harpley Doctors in Werribee, our female GPs perform Implanon insertion and removal under local anaesthetic in a few minutes — bulk-billed, with no referral required.
What is Implanon?
Implanon is a small, flexible rod that sits just under the skin of your upper arm. It releases a steady, low dose of hormone to prevent pregnancy, so once it is in place you do not need to think about contraception daily, weekly or monthly — it works quietly in the background for up to three years.
Why women in Werribee choose Implanon
- Set-and-forget: no daily pill to remember.
- Highly effective: one of the most reliable reversible contraceptive options available in Australia.
- Three years of cover: one short visit, long-term protection.
- Quickly reversible: fertility returns soon after removal if you decide to start a family.
- Discreet: the implant sits under the skin and is not visible day-to-day.
Implanon insertion at Harpley Doctors
Our female GPs perform Implanon insertion on-site at the Harpley Town Centre clinic. A typical appointment looks like this:
- Consultation: we talk through your medical history, lifestyle, current contraception and any concerns, so you can make an informed decision.
- Timing: Implanon is best inserted in the first five days of your menstrual cycle for immediate cover, but other timing is possible if needed.
- Local anaesthetic: a small injection numbs the area on your upper arm — this is the only sensation most patients feel.
- Insertion: the implant is placed under the skin in under a minute.
- Aftercare: a small dressing covers the site and you can return to your usual activities the same day. We make a brief follow-up contact about a week later.
Implanon removal and replacement
Implanon NXT lasts up to three years. At the end of that time you have two simple options — have the implant removed if you would like to try for a baby or switch methods, or have a new implant placed during the same appointment if you want to continue with the same form of contraception. Both procedures are performed under local anaesthetic at the clinic.
What to expect afterwards
Like any hormonal contraceptive, Implanon can cause side effects. The most common is a change in bleeding pattern — some patients have lighter or no periods, others experience irregular spotting, particularly in the first three to six months. Some women notice headaches, mood changes or small weight changes. Your GP will go through everything in detail at the consultation, and you can switch methods later if Implanon does not feel like the right fit.
Women’s health, all in one local clinic
Implanon is one of several women’s health services available through your local GP. Our doctors also offer cervical screening, antenatal care, menstrual health reviews and ongoing contraception advice — so you can manage your reproductive health in the one place. Standard GP appointments at our Werribee clinic are bulk-billed for patients with a valid Medicare card, and if you are new to the practice you can get set up using our new patient registration guide.
How to book Implanon insertion or removal in Werribee
You do not need a referral. Call (03) 8731 1330 to book with one of our female GPs trained in Implanon insertion and removal, or visit us at T20, 1 Hindson St, Werribee VIC 3030 (Harpley Town Centre). Walk-ins are welcome and we will do our best to fit you in as soon as possible.
Frequently asked questions
How much does Implanon cost at Harpley Doctors?
The GP consultation for Implanon insertion or removal is bulk-billed for patients with a valid Medicare card. The Implanon implant itself is subsidised on the PBS and typically costs around $7 to $50 depending on your concession status. Call (03) 8731 1330 to confirm current pricing.
How long does Implanon last?
Implanon NXT provides contraception for up to three years. After that it can be replaced with a new implant during the same appointment, or removed entirely if you want to try a different method or start a family.
Does Implanon insertion hurt?
The insertion itself takes less than a minute and is done under local anaesthetic, so the only thing you feel is the small needle for the anaesthetic. Most patients are back to their normal activities the same day.
What are the common side effects of Implanon?
Irregular bleeding is the most common side effect, especially in the first three to six months. Some patients also notice headaches, mood changes or small weight changes. Your GP will talk you through all the potential side effects at your consultation.
Do I need a referral to get Implanon at Harpley Doctors?
No referral is required. Book directly with our female GPs trained in Implanon insertion and removal by calling (03) 8731 1330.