35. OUT OF THE SPOTLIGHT: AN AUDIT OF FIVE YEARS OF IMPLANON^® USE IN QUEENSLAND

Abstract

The progestogen contraceptive implant -Implanon^® was launched into the Australian marketplace in May 2001, with intense marketing and extensive training programs for doctors. However, negative media focused on removal problems and unexpected pregnancies, followed by increased medical indemnity requirements for providers, resulted in restricted access for Australian women as many GPs ceased providing insertions.

To date there is no published data on the use of this contraceptive implant in Australia. To identify trends in usage, continuation rates, side effects and acceptability of this method, a retrospective chart audit of clients attending Family Planning Queensland (FPQ) clinics for implant insertion and/or removal over a 5 year period was conducted. The audit examined1800 implant users from the two busiest FPQ clinics, one in a regional setting.

Preliminary results from the audit indicate:-

All age groups across the reproductive years are represented in the group.

The major reason for removal is unacceptable bleeding patterns

Many women have the device removed because they no longer require contraception.

There have been no pregnancies identified with implants

The last 2 years have seen significant numbers of women presenting for implant replacement, with these women providing valuable information on factors contributing to longer term acceptability of the method.

This presentation will provide an analysis of the audit findings, particularly in relation to duration of use and implications for client acceptability of this contraceptive method. The information about Implanon^® use in a clinical setting will be used to make recommendations on improvements in the appropriate selection and counselling of women considering this contraceptive method.