Complications of Subcutaneous Contraception: A Review
January 2018
in “
Curēus
”
TLDR Subcutaneous contraceptives can cause side effects like menstrual changes, headaches, weight gain, and pain at the implant site.
The document reviewed the complications associated with subcutaneous contraceptives, which are used by a significant portion of the childbearing population in the United States. Subcutaneous contraceptives, which include implantable devices and injections, release synthetic progestin to prevent pregnancy by inhibiting ovulation and thickening cervical mucus. However, they are linked to various side effects such as menstrual disturbances, headaches, weight gain, acne, dizziness, mood changes, nausea, abdominal pain, hair loss, decreased libido, pain at the implant site, neuropathy, and follicular cysts. The review emphasizes the importance of thorough counseling for patients to ensure they are informed about these potential complications when selecting a contraceptive method.