A life-threatening ectopic pregnancy with etonogestrel implant.

BACKGROUND

Etonogestrel contraceptive implant is a highly effective subdermal method of long-acting hormonal contraception for women.

CASE: We describe a case of ruptured ectopic pregnancy occurring in a patient with an etonogestrel contraceptive implant (Implanon®). The only factor predisposing to a failure in this case is a moderately elevated body mass index of 29. However, the implant was in place for less than 2 years, and the plasma levels of etonogestrel were within the expected range.

CONCLUSION

This case report emphasizes the fact that ectopic pregnancy should not be formally ruled out in women using this contraceptive, and it highlights the need for further study of the effect of body weight on this contraceptive method.