Medical Eligibility Criteria for
Implants

Ask the client the questions below about known medical conditions. Examinations and tests are not necessary. If she answers "no" to all of the questions, then she can have implants inserted if she wants. If she answers "yes" to a question, follow the instructions. In some cases she can still start using implants.

1.    Are you breastfeeding a baby less than 6 months old?

NO    YES She can start using implants as soon as 6 weeks after childbirth (see Fully or nearly fully breastfeeding or Partially breastfeeding).

2.    Do you have severe cirrhosis of the liver, a liver infection, or liver tumor? (Are her eyes or skin unusually yellow? [signs of jaundice])

NO    YES If she reports serious active liver disease (jaundice, active hepatitis, severe cirrhosis, liver tumor), do not provide implants. Help her choose a method without hormones.

3.    Do you have a serious problem now with a blood clot in your legs or lungs?

NO    YES If she reports a current blood clot (not superficial clots), and she is not on anticoagulant therapy, do not provide implants. Help her choose a method without hormones.

4.    Do you have vaginal bleeding that is unusual for you?

NO    YES If she has unexplained vaginal bleeding that suggests pregnancy or an underlying medical condition, implants could make diagnosis and monitoring of any treatment more difficult. Help her choose a method to use while being evaluated and treated (not progestin-only injectables, or a copper-bearing or hormonal IUD). After treatment, re-evaluate for use of implants.

5.    Do you have or have you ever had breast cancer?

NO    YES Do not provide implants. Help her choose a method without hormones.

Be sure to explain the health benefits and risks and the side effects of the method that the client will use. Also, point out any conditions that would make the method inadvisable, when relevant to the client.