The contraceptive implant is a long-acting, reversible birth control method designed  for people who ovulate. This review compiles information on this contraceptive method that was approved by Health Canada in  2022, but has previously been used  in other forms (Norplant, Implanon) as early as the 1990s, particularly in Europe and Asia (Sivin et al., 1980; Stoddard, 2011). The type of implant currently approved in Canada (marketed under the name Nexplanon) is a small (4cm x 2mm diameter), flexible cylindrical implant containing etonogestrel– that is a type of progesterone. The implant is inserted under the skin in the upper arm. While it was marketed to be kept in place for up to 3 years, its contraceptive effect was shown for up to 5 years in clinical studies since then. The contraceptive effect of the implant is achieved both by inhibiting ovulation and by cervical mucus thickening. Chapter 9 of the Contraceptive Technology book provides details on the characteristics of the contraceptive implant and its prescription by healthcare professionals (Chen & Matulich, 2023).

The contraceptive implant is one of the most effective methods of contraception, with a meta-analysis study reporting an efficacy rate of 100% (Moray et al., 2021). The contraceptive implant offers higher efficacy than user-dependent methods such as the pill, ring, or patch (Winner et al., 2012). Stoddard et al. (2011) highlights additional advantages, such as its discretion. The main disadvantage of the implant is the likelihood of irregular bleeding, also known as spotting, which would be the primary reason for the lower 1-year continuation rate of this method compared with IUDs (Moray et al., 2021). Moreover, the impact on cancer risk is deemed comparable to that of other hormonal contraception methods, according to at least one study, albeit with many limitations (Tuesley, 2025).

The acceptability of this contraceptive method can vary across different populations. A study in India among cis women reveals that its acceptability was very high when women were informed of its existence (Gupta, 2025). The implant may also be particularly appropriate for transmasculine individuals in need of contraception. Authors (Das & Lobo, 2025; Faucher & Hassoun, 2023) list the advantages of this method for trans men, including the compatibility of the implant with testosterone intake. At least one qualitative study (Agénor et al., 2020), explores trans men's preference for using this type of contraception that does not interfere with their hormone therapy.