Birth Control

Norplant

Norplant is a hormonal implant used for birth control. It is effective for up to five years. Norplant uses hormone-carrying rods about the size and shape of matchsticks inserted under the skin, normally in the upper arm.

Neither Norplant nor any other hormonal implant is currently available to women in the United States. The manufacturer of Norplant stopped distributing the Norplant System in July of 2002.

Women who still have the Norplant system should contact their health care provider for information on other birth control options available after the five-year expiration date of their Norplant system.

In the future, implantable hormone systems may again become available to women in the United States. For updated information on Norplant, contact the Contraception Foundation (formerly the Norplant Foundation) online or at (800) 760-9030.

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