Loading...
Contraceptive implant labeling advises placement within 5 days of menstrual cycle day 1 or within 7 days of discontinuing hormonal contraception, both after a negative pregnancy test. Women who request implants outside these guidelines are often advised to return at the “proper time,” but can unintentionally become pregnant if they don't return. The CDC endorses implant placement at any time if the clinician is reasonably certain the patient is not pregnant (see https://www.cdc.gov/reproductivehealth/unintendedpregnancy/pdf/248124_box1_app_b_d_final_tag508.pdf). However, concern that women in luteal phase may harbor a fertilized ovum or undetectable early pregnancy prevents some clinicians from implementing this approach. Researchers used e…