Free shipping

Contraceptive Implant Site Changed?Contact the Clinic

Suspected infection or movement needs a clinical assessment, rather than trying to adjust the implant yourself.

Woman in a pink cardigan seated at home with a closed notebook and phone.
In this article
  1. Tell the clinic what changed
  2. Let the team assess the next step

If you think the contraceptive implant site is infected or the implant has moved, contact a GP or sexual health clinic. The NHS1 describes swelling and pain as possible signs of infection at the site. Have the change assessed rather than diagnosing it yourself.1

Tell the clinic what changed

Have the fitting date and service details available if you know them. Describe the change, when you noticed it and any symptoms. If you cannot find the fitting record, tell the clinic that too.

Ask: “I have noticed a change around my implant. How should I arrange an assessment, and what details do you need?”

Let the team assess the next step

Do not try to remove or reposition the implant yourself. Ask the clinician what the finding means for your care, including whether you need any advice about your contraceptive plan. This article cannot confirm that the implant is in the right place or providing protection.

Keep the clinic’s answer with the appointment details. If the instructions are unclear, ask them to explain whom to contact and how to arrange the next step.

Period, Handled includes a Period Scorecard and a Flag-It list with a visit script. Use the script to organize the change you noticed and the questions you want answered. See the book.

This article is for general educational purposes only and is not medical advice. It isn't a substitute for diagnosis or treatment from a qualified healthcare professional who knows your health history. Please don't ignore professional advice or delay getting care because of something you read here. If you think you may be having a medical emergency, call 911 or your local emergency number right away. Girl Playbook does not endorse any specific product, test, or provider.

Read our health disclaimer

Girl Playbook sells this book. It provides education and worksheets, not individualized medical care.

Sources

The research behind this article, in the order it’s cited. How we source our articles.

  1. NHS, 2024Side effects and risks of the contraceptive implant (opens in a new tab)ab

Spotted something out of date? Tell us and we’ll check it.

Private questions deserve good answers.

Ten Playbooks, one for each of the problems women rarely talk about.

Shop the Playbooks