Slide 6
The mean level of LNG in the
blood stream drops rapidly during the first few weeks after insertion. By 6 months, it
reaches 0.25-0.4 ng/ml and decreases only slightly during the next 4.5 years.
Slide
20
The tubing used to make Norplant
capsules was changed in 1992 to a less dense tubing. Studies of the older capsules with
denser tubing demonstrated an increase in the gross cumulative pregnancy rate in women
weighing more than 70 kg. This effect does not occur with the newer capsules. There is no
reason to be concerned about the use of Norplant Implants by heavier women.
Slide
22
Because Norplant Implants are
highly effective, the risk of ectopic pregnancy is very low. In fact, the ectopic
pregnancy rate of 1.3 for women using Norplant Implants is lower than the rate of 2.7 per
1000 woman-years for noncontracepting women in the US. If a woman does become pregnant
with Norplant Implants in place, there is a greater likelihood that the pregnancy will be
ectopic.
Slide 26
Although nearly all users will experience side effects during 5 years of
use, serious problems are rare and most can be alleviated with simple treatments. If side
effects are not treated, however, they may prompt users to stop using implants. It is
especially important to treat menstrual bleeding changes-which occur in most users-because
these changes are a common reason for discontinuation. This table shows treatments for the
most common side effects.
