WOMEN seeking a long-term contraceptive method will now be able to stave off pregnancy for up to five years with the use of the Jadelle implant.

The Jadelle implant replaces the Norplant, which is currently being phased out, and is one of the most recent contraceptive methods introduced on the local market. The contraceptive is being made available to women at those clinics operated by the Jamaica Family Planning Association (FAMPLAN Jamaica), as well as some Government clinics across the island.

The contraceptive comprises two rods, which release hormones to prevent pregnancy, once inserted into the upper arm of a woman. It can do so from within the first 24 hours of being injected, and lasts up to five years.

Marva Garrick, a nurse who works with FAMPLAN Jamaica, said the implants should only be inserted by a doctor, preferably a gynaecologist who is trained in carrying out such procedures. They should also be removed by a medical practitioner. She said that the doctor will use a local anaesthesia to deaden the area, so that the woman doesn't feel them when they are going in.

"The doctor will use an instrument just to make a small puncture wound for the implants to be inserted," she said, adding that the rods are the size of match sticks, and about one inch long.

Garrick said that since the advertising of Jadelle in about May of this year, at least 20 women have visited the FAMPLAN Jamaica clinic in St Ann's Bay where she works, to get the contraceptive inserted.

Kristina Morgan of FAMPLAN Jamaica, said that the Jadelle implants are very effective and efficient.

"This method is for persons who are looking for a long-term contraceptive as opposed to the pill where you have to remember all the time and once it is placed in by the doctor, you don't really have to think about your contraceptive again," she said, adding that women are encouraged to use other contraceptive methods like the condom to prevent sexually transmitted diseases and infections.

Both women assured that once removed, the contraceptive is no longer effective and so a woman can become pregnant immediately after.

"It is not like the monthly injection where for some people after they have finished using, it might take up to nine months for them to get pregnant again. For this one, there is no delay in fertility," said Garrick.

Like many contraceptive methods, the Jadelle implant has a number of side effects, which vary according to individuals. These include menstrual irregularities, headaches, breast tenderness and nausea.

The contraceptive is not recommended for women who have had breast cancer within five years, pregnant women, smokers and women over 176 pounds.