Minor Procedures

At Bethany Medical Centre our experienced doctors are able to offer many minor procedures including;

  •  Implanon inserts and removals
  •  IUD insert and removals
  •  Mole removal and skin biopsy
  •  Ingrown toe nail removal
  •  Joint injections
  •  I & D
  •  Foreign body removal

 

All minor procedures will need an initial GP appointment to assess your needs, please  contact us  to arrange an appointment.

 

Implanon Removal & Insertion

 

Implanon is the brand name for the contraceptive implant containing the hormone progesterone which is a hormone similar to the hormone progesterone, which is naturally produced by the female body.


This form of contraceptive is highly effective and lasts for up to three years. It is an ideal method for young women leading busy lifestyles requiring safe and effective contraception.

 

How Effective is the Implanon Contraceptive?

Implanon is at least 99.9% effective. 


This means that if 1,000 women use Implanon for a year it is possible that 1 woman could become pregnant. 

 

How Does Implanon Work?

Implanon implant slowly releases progestogen into the bloodstream to prevent pregnancy for up to three years. The implant works by 

  •  Preventing ovulation (egg release from the ovary), 
  •  Preventing thickening of the mucus of the cervix so that sperm cannot enter the uterus (womb), and
  •  Changing the lining of the uterus thereby making it unsuitable for pregnancy.

 

Some medications can reduce the effectiveness of Implanon. It is important to inform doctors you have an Implanon when another medication is prescribed.

 

About the Implanon Procedure

The Implanon insertion procedure is quick and simple.


Using a small flexible rod, a contraceptive implant is inserted under the skin of the upper arm. During the procedure, your arm is under a local anaesthetic.

 

Who is Suitable for:

 

The choice of a particular method of contraceptive depends on an individual's 

  •  Age, 
  •  Health, 
  •  Frequency of sexual activity, 
  •  Number of sexual partners, 
  •  Plans for future pregnancy, and
  •  Certain medical conditions. 

 

Discuss with your doctor about the choices of birth control available for your particular situation.

 

Alternatives to Implanon Contraceptive

 

Mirena IUS

This is an intrauterine device that is a highly effective form of contraception with minimal hormonal side effects. It lasts for up to five years and like Implanon has the advantages of being a 'fit and forget' method of contraception.

 

Intrauterine Contraceptive Device

We have practitioners who are experienced in both Implanon and Mirena insertions. Please ask at reception for details.

 

Wound Care & Dressings

Today you had your procedure and there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure the best outcomes for any post-procedure wound/s.

 

First Few Days

If you have had a biopsy (small test piece removed for diagnostic purposes only) then just keep the wound area dry for 24 hours and then remove the dressing. 

 

If you have had an excision (the whole lesion removed) you must keep the wound completely dry for the next 4 days, and change the dressing daily using the dressings provided.

 

Ensure Wound Protected

To ensure the best long-term result, try to minimise movement of the wound-bearing area, especially if it is on the upper body, or near a major joint. These areas can scar poorly if excessive movement occurs during the entire healing period, and in some cases (ie near knees or hips) for some weeks afterwards.

 

Wound Damage

If your wound/s become sore, bleed, or otherwise don’t seem to be healing as expected, give us a call or drop in as soon as you are able. If urgent, see your GP or local hospital as timely assessment can be important.

 

Leg & Ankle Wounds

With wounds below the middle of the calf including the ankle or foot, it is necessary to dramatically reduce the amount of standing or walking and keep the leg straight out from your body (as it is in best) whenever you are able. This promotes better blood-flow which means better healing.

 

Removal of Stitches

Firstly it’s important to have your stitches out only on the date you were advised.

 

Results

If you have had pathology results can take up to a week, and in rare cases a little longer. 


We will attempt to phone your results to you so please ensure we have your updated contact details while you are at Reception or as soon as possible afterwards to minimise delays.

 

Rarely further procedures are necessary so it’s important we are able to discuss this with you as soon as possible. Due to data security requirements, we are unable to directly email results.