Implanon Device - The Community Doctor

Q: How much does Implanon insertion cost in Ringwood?

The Community Doctor is a mixed-billing clinic in Ringwood. The Implanon NXT device is available on the PBS, which significantly reduces the cost of the device itself. Consultation and procedure fees apply and will be discussed prior to your appointment. A Medicare rebate applies to eligible services.

What is the Implanon NXT contraceptive implant?

Implanon NXT is a small, flexible contraceptive rod — about the size of a matchstick — inserted just under the skin on the inner upper arm by a trained GP. Available at our Ringwood clinic, it provides continuous, highly effective contraception for up to three years.

About the size of a matchstick. The Implanon NXT rod is 4 cm long and 2 mm wide — virtually invisible under the skin, yet effective enough to provide over 99% protection against pregnancy for three years without any daily action required.

How Implanon is inserted

Your Ringwood GP numbs the area with a local anaesthetic, then uses a single-use applicator to place the rod just under the skin on the inner upper arm. The procedure takes only a few minutes, requires no stitches, and leaves a minimal mark.

How Implanon NXT works

The implant slowly releases a low dose of etonogestrel (a progestogen hormone). This primarily prevents ovulation and also thickens cervical mucus, significantly reducing the chance of sperm reaching an egg.

Over 99% effective

The contraceptive implant is one of the most reliable contraceptive methods available in Australia. Because there is nothing to remember or take daily, there is no risk of user error affecting its performance.

Fully reversible

Implanon NXT can be removed at any time at our Ringwood clinic. Fertility typically returns within days to weeks of removal — making it a sound choice even if you're planning to conceive in the near future.

How the Implanon implant prevents pregnancy — in detail

Implanon NXT works through three complementary mechanisms. Firstly, it suppresses ovulation — without an egg being released, fertilisation cannot occur. Secondly, it thickens the mucus at the cervix, creating a barrier that significantly reduces the chance of sperm reaching the uterus. Finally, it alters the uterine lining, making it less receptive to implantation.

Because the hormone etonogestrel is delivered directly into the bloodstream at a steady, low dose from the implanted rod, it does not rely on daily compliance — making it considerably more effective in practice than methods such as the oral contraceptive pill.

Unlike the combined oral contraceptive pill, Implanon NXT contains only a progestogen and does not contain oestrogen. This makes it suitable for people who cannot or prefer not to use oestrogen-based contraception, including those who are breastfeeding.

Implanon services at our Ringwood GP clinic

The Community Doctor in Ringwood offers a complete Implanon NXT service — from your initial consultation through to insertion, replacement, and removal.

Implanon consultation

A dedicated appointment with our Ringwood GP to review your medical history, discuss your contraceptive goals, and confirm whether Implanon NXT is right for you. No pressure, plenty of time for questions.

Implanon NXT insertion

Performed under local anaesthetic by our experienced GP. The procedure takes approximately 5 minutes and most patients return to normal activities on the same day with minimal discomfort.

Implanon removal & replacement

Whether your implant has reached the end of its three-year effective life, you'd like to conceive, or you wish to switch methods — removal is a straightforward in-clinic procedure at our Ringwood rooms.

What to expect: your Implanon journey in Ringwood

Here is a step-by-step overview of what your Implanon NXT experience at The Community Doctor looks like, from first appointment to ongoing care.

Book an Implanon consultation in Ringwood

Your first step is a dedicated consultation with our GP at our Ringwood clinic. This is the time to discuss your health history, current medications, lifestyle, and contraceptive preferences — and to ask any questions you have about the implant.
Preparing for Implanon insertion

Your GP will advise on the best timing for insertion in relation to your menstrual cycle or current contraception. Ideally, insertion occurs within the first five days of your period to ensure immediate protection — your GP will confirm what is right for you.
The Implanon NXT insertion procedure

The inner side of your upper arm is cleaned and a small amount of local anaesthetic is injected. Once numb, the single-use applicator places the rod just beneath the skin. The whole procedure takes around 5 minutes. You may feel mild pressure but should not feel pain.
Immediately after your implant insertion

A small bandage is applied to the site. You may notice some bruising, swelling, or tenderness for a few days — this is completely normal. Your GP will show you how to feel for the rod so you can confirm it is correctly in place.
Ongoing care, replacement & removal

Implanon NXT is effective for three years. As you approach the three-year mark, our Ringwood GP will discuss your options — replacement with a new implant, or removal if you wish to try a different method or start trying to conceive. We will send a reminder when the time comes.

Who is the contraceptive implant suitable for?

Implanon NXT is a versatile option suited to a wide range of people in Ringwood and the surrounding area. Your GP will assess your individual circumstances to confirm it is the right choice for you.

Those who want a set-and-forget contraceptive that does not require daily action

People who cannot or prefer not to use oestrogen-containing contraceptives

Those who find it difficult to remember a daily pill or find other methods inconvenient

People who are breastfeeding — Implanon NXT is safe to use while breastfeeding

Those who want effective contraception with a clear and quick reversibility pathway

People who experience heavy or painful periods and may benefit from progestogen-only contraception

Implanon NXT: changes & side effects

Like all hormonal contraceptives, the implant can cause changes for some people. Many find these settle within the first few months.

Menstrual changes

The most common change with Implanon NXT. Periods may become irregular, lighter, more frequent, or stop altogether. While unpredictable bleeding is the main reason some choose early removal, many people welcome lighter or absent periods. Changes often settle after the first 3–6 months.

Insertion site

Bruising, swelling, and tenderness around the insertion site are common in the first few days. Scarring is rare and typically minimal. The rod is usually not visible but can be felt under the skin.

Hormonal effects

Some people report headaches, acne, breast tenderness, mood changes, or reduced libido — particularly in the early months. These are typically mild and often improve over time. Speak with our Ringwood GP if any concerns arise.

Serious events

Serious complications are rare. In very uncommon cases the implant may be inserted too deeply, making removal more complex. Our GP uses the Implanon NXT single-use applicator, which is specifically designed to ensure correct sub-dermal placement every time.

The contraceptive implant may not be suitable for everyone. Your GP will take a full medical history before recommending Implanon NXT. Certain conditions — including unexplained vaginal bleeding, liver disease, a history of certain cancers, or use of specific medications — may affect suitability.

Frequently asked questions about Implanon in Ringwood

Common questions our patients ask before their Implanon NXT consultation at The Community Doctor.

Does Implanon NXT insertion hurt?

A local anaesthetic is used to numb the area before insertion, so you should feel little to no pain during the procedure itself. You may feel mild pressure or a brief sting from the anaesthetic injection. Some tenderness and bruising around the site in the days following is normal and settles quickly.

How quickly does the contraceptive implant start working?

If inserted within the first five days of your period, the Implanon NXT implant is effective immediately. If inserted at any other time in your cycle, you should use backup contraception (such as condoms) for 7 days. Your GP will confirm the timing that applies to you.

Will I be able to feel or see the Implanon implant?

In most cases the implant is not visible, though you will be able to feel it under the skin with your fingers. Your GP will show you how to check for it after insertion. Being able to feel it is reassuring confirmation that it is correctly in place.

What happens to my periods while the contraceptive implant is in?

Menstrual changes are the most common effect of the implant. Your periods may become irregular, lighter, or stop altogether. For many people this is a welcome change, but unpredictable spotting can be frustrating for some. Patterns often stabilise after the first few months. Speak with your GP if bleeding changes are bothering you.

Can I have my Implanon removed early if I change my mind?

Yes, absolutely. The Implanon NXT implant can be removed at any time by our GP in Ringwood — you do not need to wait for the three years to be up. Fertility typically returns very quickly after removal. Simply book an appointment to arrange this.

How much does Implanon insertion cost in Ringwood?

The Community Doctor is a mixed-billing GP clinic in Ringwood. The Implanon NXT device is available on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS), which significantly reduces the cost of the device itself. Consultation and procedure fees apply and will be discussed with you prior to your appointment. A Medicare rebate applies to eligible services. Please contact reception or book online for current fee information.

Does the contraceptive implant protect against STIs?

No. Like all hormonal contraceptives, the Implanon NXT implant does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Condoms should be used alongside the implant if STI protection is also needed. Your GP can discuss STI screening or testing at your Ringwood consultation.

Implanon NXT Insertion & Removal
in Ringwood