That itchy feeling...

[fireheart]

I had the contraceptive implant (also known as Implanon) inserted last Friday (Aussie time). I still have the gauze over the insertion site and I'm getting it removed someime this week. I did take off the pressure bandage after the 24-hour period, and now I just rewrap it tight enough for it not to slip, but not overly tight. (stops people asking me what operation I had and also stops people from grabbing me all around that area)

Anyway, the question I'm asking is...is there a way to handle the itchy feeling around that area without physically scratching it? It IS normal, according to the aftercare sheet, as it's in the process of healing. There's a nice line of bruising directly over the insertion site and there was one about two-finger widths wide just above it. That's gone down now, but basically is there a way to take care of said itchy feeling?

[flybye023]

I've never used the device you're talking about but I've found with like, mosquito bites and such that if I gently scratch around the area rather that directly over it, it does relieve most of the itching without further damaging the skin. You might also look into anti-itch creams. Another thing, when I had a really bad allergic reaction to metal, I found that heat compresses helped the itching.

[TheSHAD0W]

The itchy feeling around, but not on, the wound is a normal impulse, and is designed to induce you to massage the skin around the wound to improve blood flow. You can rub lightly around the area, but be careful not to stretch the skin too much.

[fireheart]

Thanks guys.

Basically it's the Implanon, in other words, the rod that's about the size of a matchstick.

The line of bruising is all along where it was placed and up around the actual wound site. I'm getting the gauze removed on Wednesday so I can do more follow-up on it. I've also been checking where the rod is.

BUt yeah, a wrapped arm is easier to explain...

[NorthernZel]

I don't have experience with Implanon, but I suggest that you "pat" the itching area instead of scratching it.

I did that when my tattoo was healing, and it itched like hell - patting the tattoo actually helped.

[fireheart]

Well I do have some good news on this front...

They removed the gauze and the stitch (yeah, I had no clue that was even there ).

The bruising has almost gone, there's now a very faint line running around the insertion point as well as two brown patches near the insertion site.

[Plaidman]

Oh wow! I've heard of this, in sex ed, but never met someone who had it! Isn't it good, for like a very long time?

[RecoveringKinkoid]

An itch is a very mild pain. If you take a painkiller, you should get itch relief.

I'm very experienced in treating poison ivy and mosquito bites. I live in South Carolina.