PRELIMINARY EXPERIENCE WITH NORPLANT(R) IN AN INNER-CITY POPULATION

Norplant(R), the five-year subdermal contraceptive system, is the first implantable contraceptive method approved for general use in the United States. We describe the preliminary experiences of 246 U.S. women who accepted Norplant between April, 1991 and September, 1991. Norplant was well accepted among this diverse general population. Intensive counselling about side effects, especially menstrual changes, is crucial for patient satisfaction. Although 48% of acceptors experienced menstrual cycle changes and 70% experienced at least one side effect, phone calls and unscheduled visits for problems were infrequent. Adequate counselling about side effects obviates the need for a routine follow-up visit one month after insertion.