The mechanics of the implant

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Rosy Rachel
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The mechanics of the implant

Unread post by Rosy Rachel »

Hi! So I've had the implant for about 6 months now, I am trained to teach sex Ed so know how hormones in the implant prevents pregnancy etc, but do not know the actual mechanics of it. By this I mean how does it release the hormone? I know this sounds silly because I do know how it works but don't know how a piece of plastic manages to contain and release 3 years worth of hormone! Thank you!
Heather
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Re: The mechanics of the implant

Unread post by Heather »

Hey there, Rachel. And thanks for coming here to work with our Twitter policies. This actually is a pretty short answer, but we have to hold a line with answering questions there or else it would be mania. :)

Ultimately, whether we're talking implant, IUD or Nuvaring, they all basically do this the same way. They're made of materials -- kinds of plastics -- which contain the medication, and then slowly release them over time. Which specific kind of plastic is chosen for any kind of delivery device like this (contraception or other medications) apparently has to do with how fast or slowly the medication is intended to be delivered.

Does that make sense and answer what you were asking?
Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has. - Margaret Mead
Rosy Rachel
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Re: The mechanics of the implant

Unread post by Rosy Rachel »

That's very helpful thank you!!!
Heather
scarleteen founder & director
Posts: 9533
Joined: Sun Jul 27, 2014 11:43 am
Age: 53
Awesomeness Quotient: I have been a sex educator for over 25 years!
Primary language: english
Pronouns: they/them
Sexual identity: queery-queer-queer
Location: Chicago

Re: The mechanics of the implant

Unread post by Heather »

Happy to help. :)

(Delivery devices for medications are pretty fascinating, IMO. Go technology!)
Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has. - Margaret Mead
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