01 January 2005
I had the implanon implant on the 10th June 04, 7 months ago. I had a period around every 2 or 3 months but it was very light. This period started on the 23rd december and its 2 and half weeks on and it is showing no sign of stopping. It is light, only need panty liner protection, but it hurts and isn't stopping. what should I do?

Response
Irregular vaginal bleeding is a common side effect of implanon, particularly in the first year after insertion. However, whilst pregnancy is virtually impossible on implanon, it would be sensible to do a pregnancy test just to make sure that you aren't pregnant. Infection can also cause light irregular bleeding. I would suggest that you see either your GP or your local genitourinary clinic to exclude infection and any other possible causes. Once all other causes of irregular bleeding have been excluded, your doctor might prescribe a short course of oestrogen to stop the bleeding, if oestrogen therapy is safe for you. Another drug that may be useful to try would be mefenamic acid which would certainly help with the period pain.