Long-acting contraception usually comes down to two choices: an intrauterine device (IUD) or the contraceptive implant, Implanon NXT. Comparing IUD vs Implanon side by side makes it easier to see which one suits your body, your periods and your plans for the next few years. Both are very effective, and both are fitted by a trained doctor, but they sit in different places and last for different lengths of time. This guide explains how each one works, what the appointment involves and how to book women’s health care at Harpley Doctors in Werribee.
Key Takeaways
- Implanon NXT is a small rod under the skin of the inner upper arm that lasts up to 3 years.
- Hormonal IUDs last up to 5 years and copper IUDs up to 10 years.
- Fewer than 1 in 100 people using either method become pregnant.
- Neither an IUD nor the implant protects against sexually transmitted infections.
- Both are fitted by a trained doctor, and procedures are bulk billed at Harpley Doctors.
How the IUD and Implanon work
An IUD is a small device placed inside the uterus. According to healthdirect’s IUD guide, there are two types: the hormonal IUD and the copper IUD. The hormonal IUD slowly releases a progestogen hormone called levonorgestrel, and the brands available in Australia are Mirena and Kyleena. The copper IUD is made of copper and plastic and releases no hormones at all.
Implanon NXT is a thin, flexible plastic rod about 4 cm long that sits under the skin on the inside of your arm. Healthdirect’s contraceptive implant page explains that it releases a progestogen called etonogestrel, which thickens the mucus at the entrance to the uterus and stops ovulation. It is the only brand of contraceptive implant available in Australia.
Both methods are long-acting reversible contraceptives, often called LARCs. They sit alongside the pill, the injection and other birth control options your GP can talk through with you.
IUD vs Implanon: the main differences
When people weigh up IUD vs Implanon, the biggest differences are where the device sits, how long it lasts and what it is likely to do to your periods.
- Where it sits: an IUD goes inside the uterus; the implant goes under the skin of the inner upper arm.
- How long it lasts: hormonal IUDs work for up to 5 years and copper IUDs for up to 10 years; the implant lasts for 3 years but can be removed earlier.
- Hormones: the hormonal IUD and the implant both release a progestogen; the copper IUD is hormone free.
- Effectiveness: fewer than 1 in 100 people using either an IUD or the implant become pregnant.
- Periods: hormonal IUDs, especially Mirena, can help with heavy periods and period pain, and periods sometimes stop. Copper IUDs can make periods heavier and longer. The implant changes bleeding patterns: most women have lighter periods and some stop altogether, while others have irregular, more frequent or longer bleeding, especially in the first 3 months.
- Fertility afterwards: your cycle and fertility return quickly once an IUD is removed, and periods usually return within one month of removing the implant.
What the appointment involves
An IUD can only be put in by a specially trained doctor or nurse. Healthdirect describes the procedure as a bit like having a cervical screening test: you lie on your back and a speculum is placed in the vagina, and local anaesthetic can reduce discomfort. You may have cramps and bleeding for a few days. For a couple of days afterwards, avoid tampons or menstrual cups, sex, baths and swimming, and check the IUD thread about once a month. Our IUD insertion service page covers what to expect at the clinic.
The implant needs a prescription and is inserted by a trained doctor or nurse using local anaesthetic to numb the skin. You may have some bruising, soreness or itchiness in the arm for a few days. Removal is also done under local anaesthetic, and a new implant can be put in at the same visit. See our Implanon insertion service for details.
After a hormonal IUD or the implant is put in, you may need to use another type of contraception for 7 days, so check this with your doctor. At Harpley Doctors, Dr Arezoo Mirzaei lists IUD and Implanon insertion and removal among her areas of interest, and you can read more about her and the other GPs on our team page.
Side effects and who each method suits
Possible side effects overlap. Healthdirect lists headaches, mood changes, acne, breast tenderness, weight gain and lower interest in sex for both the hormonal IUD and the implant, plus ovarian cysts for the hormonal IUD. The implant may also move from its original position or leave a small scar. If you cannot feel your implant at any time, use back-up contraception and see your doctor.
Both methods can be used when breastfeeding. The copper IUD can also be used as emergency contraception if it is put in within 5 days of unprotected sex. The implant is not suitable for people who have breast cancer or who might be pregnant, and it may not be recommended with severe liver disease, unusual vaginal bleeding or certain medicines.
See your doctor straight away if you have an IUD and notice an unusual vaginal discharge, pain in your lower tummy or pain during sex. Remember that neither method protects against sexually transmitted infections, so condoms and a regular STD check-up still matter.
Not sure which option suits you? Book a consultation with one of our GPs to talk through your health history, your periods and your plans.
Costs at Harpley Doctors
All consultations and procedures are bulk billed. See Patient Info and Fees for fees and practice policies.
Making your choice
There is no single right answer. If you want hormone-free contraception or the longest protection, a copper IUD may appeal. If you would prefer to avoid a vaginal procedure, the implant in the arm may suit you better. If heavy periods are a concern, a hormonal IUD is worth discussing. If you are planning a pregnancy in the next year or two, both can be removed early, and our GPs also provide antenatal and pregnancy care when the time comes.
You can book online through HealthEngine or call (03) 8731 1330. If you are new to the clinic, fill in the new patient registration form before you come, and bring photo ID and your Medicare card.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does getting an IUD hurt?
Some people find it uncomfortable. The procedure is similar to a cervical screening test, and local anaesthetic can reduce discomfort or pain. Cramps and bleeding for a few days afterwards are common; see your doctor if they last longer than that.
Can I have the implant or IUD removed early?
Yes. Both can be taken out by a trained doctor whenever you choose. Fertility returns quickly after an IUD is removed, and periods usually return within one month of removing the implant.
Do I need back-up contraception after insertion?
You may need to use another type of contraception for 7 days after a hormonal IUD or the implant is put in. Your doctor will tell you what applies to your situation.
Can I use an IUD or the implant while breastfeeding?
Yes. Healthdirect notes that both IUDs and the contraceptive implant can be used when breastfeeding, and the implant can also be used after having a baby.
Ready to talk about long-acting contraception? Book online through HealthEngine or call Harpley Doctors in Werribee.