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Levoplant™ – WHO Prequalified Subdermal Contraceptive Implant
Levoplant™ is a contraceptive implant that provides effective birth control for up to three years after insertion. It consists of two small rods, each about the size of a matchstick, that are inserted under the skin of the upper, inner arm of a woman. These rods release levonorgestrel, a synthetic progestin, slowly and continuously over time.
Levoplant™ is one of the most effective family planning methods, with fewer than 1 pregnancy per 100 users expected each year
The insertion and removal of Levoplant™ are performed by a trained health provider. They are minor surgical procedures that take a few minutes with local anesthetic injection
WHO-prequalified, ensuring it meets international quality standards for manufacturing and clinical performance
Composition and Product Features
- Levoplant™ consists of two thin, flexible medical-grade silicone rods.
- Each rod contains 75 mg of levonorgestrel (total 150 mg).
- Demonstrates over 99% effectiveness for up to 3 years (fewer than 1 pregnancy per 100 women over the duration of use). In women with higher body weight, effectiveness may decrease toward the end of the intended duration, and earlier replacement may be considered.
Mechanism of Action
- Inhibits ovulation by preventing the release of the egg.
- Thickens cervical mucus, making it difficult for sperm to reach and fertilize the egg.
Side Effects
- Irregular menstrual bleeding may occur but is not harmful.
- Other possible side effects include abdominal pain, weight changes, breast tenderness, mood changes, and migraines.
Contraindications
Levoplant™ is not recommended for individuals with:
- Unexplained vaginal bleeding.
- Severe liver cirrhosis or liver tumors.
- History of or current breast cancer.
- History of or current deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
- Steiner MJ, et al. Randomized trial to evaluate contraceptive efficacy, safety and acceptability of a two-rod contraceptive implant over 4 years in the Dominican Republic. Contracept X. (2019) 1:100006.
- World Health Organization Department of Sexual and Reproductive Health and Research (WHO/SRH) and Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health/ Center for Communication Programs (CCP), Knowledge SUCCESS. Family Planning: A Global Handbook for Providers 4th edition, 2022.
