Nexplanon For Preventing Pregnancy
The Food and Drug Administration approves prescription drugs, such as Nexplanon, for certain uses.
Nexplanon is a birth control device. Its FDA-approved to help prevent pregnancy in females* who can become pregnant.
To learn more about sexual health or other birth control options, see Medical News Todayssexual health hub.
How Long Will It Take To Get Pregnant
Most hormonal birth control methods stop you from ovulating, or releasing an egg. If you do not release an egg, there is nothing for sperm to fertilize. This is why you do not get pregnant.
When you stop using hormonal birth control, you will start ovulating again. When you are ovulating, you are fertile. But a return of fertility does not automatically mean you will get pregnant.
Dont Miss: Can Birth Control Help Your Period
Financial And Insurance Assistance
If you need financial support to pay for Nexplanon, or if you need help understanding your insurance coverage, help is available.
Organon, the manufacturer of Nexplanon, offers information about the cost of the drug on their website. They also provide tips about insurance coverage.
To learn more about saving money on prescriptions, check out this article.
Read Also: Can You Get A Bikini Wax On Your Period
Stopped Period After 2 Years On Nexplanon
Question posted by JodieAx on 17 Feb 2022
Ive had my implant for 2 years now and my periods have been irregular, cycles are between 19-30+days but suddenly they have just stopped?
LousArk
It’s common for periods to stop while on the Implant. It’s also common to get irregular bleeding. It just depends how much irregular bleeding you get, as to whether or not it’s a problem.
+0JodieAx
My periods are like every 2 weeks for 5-7days and then every 3 weeks for 5-7days, if that makes sense? Very irregular but only since being on the implant, so Im thinking its just apart of nexplanon. Thank you for commenting
Yes, that’s just breakthrough bleeding. Very common. Not something everyone chooses to put up with. You’re very welcome.
JodieAx
So you think its nothing to worry about? Its random how its suddenly stopped, maybe the implant have just finally calmed down after 2 years of being mad
LousArk
It’s certainly somethimg that happens to a lot of people. Ideally, it should have happened soon after you had ot put in, & you should not have had to tolerate so much irregular bleeding. That is usually the case, that bleeding stops altogether.
JodieAx
Thank you for youre help! I appreciate it. I think Ill just see how it goes then
How Do They Remove Nexplanon
To remove the device, your health care provider will inject a local anesthetic in your arm beneath the implant. They will make a small incision in your skin and will push the implant toward the incision until the tip is visible and can be grasped with forceps.
Your health care provider will then pull out the implant, close the incision and apply a pressure bandage. Contraceptive implant removal typically takes less than five minutes.
If you choose, a new device can be implanted as soon as the original device is removed. Be prepared to use another type of contraception right away if you dont have a new device inserted.
For information on Problems with Insertion and Removal see the section below called What are the possible risks of using Nexplanon?
Read Also: Why Am I Getting My Period On Birth Control
What About If I Am Being Prescribed Certain Medications
There are certain medications that will make the contraceptive implant less effective. This includes some HIV, epilepsy and tuberculosis medications, St Johns Wort and certain antibiotics such as rifabutin or rifampicin.
We recommend having a conversation with your doctor to ensure that any medication you are taking will not affect the effectiveness of your implant. If your medication does affect this method then we would recommend looking for another method of contraception that isnt affected by your medication.
The Contraceptive Implant Is A Method Of Contraception That Stays In The Upper Arm For Three Years Perfect For Those Who Dont Want To Have To Remember To Take A Daily Pill
But how effective is it, and can you still get pregnant on the implant?
In short, the implant is more than 99% effective. This means that fewer than 1 in 100 women with the implant will get pregnant each year.
There are some other factors to consider when using the implant as contraception such as side effects and its use with other medication.
We answer your most common questions covering the below topics
-
What is the contraceptive implant and how does it work?
-
When does the contraceptive implant start working?
-
Can you get pregnant on the implant and how long does it last?
-
I want to get pregnant but still have the implant in my arm! what next?
Read Also: Why Is My Period Late And I M Not Pregnant
How Does The Implant Work To Prevent Pregnancy
The contraceptive implant works by slowly releasing a hormone called progestogen into your bloodstream which stops you from releasing an egg each month.
It will also thicken the mucus in your cervix, making it much more difficult for sperm to travel through, and also thin the lining of your womb making it harder for a fertilised egg to implant. This makes the implant more than 99% effective.
Will The Contraceptive Implant Make Me Gain Weight
There is no strong evidence that the contraceptive implant makes women put on weight. Progesterone can do this, but more so when taken in higher doses than you receive from the contraceptive implant. It can also cause fluid retention initially which will make your weight go up but this is usually due to fluid rather than fat.
However, many women do feel that the contraceptive implant has made them gain weight. If this happens to you then this weight gain is likely to reverse when you stop using the implant.
The early side-effects of the contraceptive implant are rather like the early symptoms of pregnancy. This is not surprising, since the early symptoms of pregnancy are caused by progesterone. It is not unusual for women to feel they may be pregnant when they first have the implant. A pregnancy test will give you an accurate answer.
Recommended Reading: How To Know When Your About To Start Your Period
Also Check: Dental Insurance Missouri No Waiting Period
Potential Nexplanon Side Effects
When Nexplanon side effects are concerned, the most common one definitely has to do with a womans menstrual bleeding. Essentially, the majority of women with this implant will experience some kind of change in their menstrual flow pattern, be that in intensity, frequency, or duration of the bleeding. In general, 1 in 5 women will notice longer or more frequent bleeding, while another 1 in 5 women will completely miss their periods. Pay attention to your menstrual patterns for the first three months after Nexplanon insertion, as this will indicate what to expect in the future as well.
Some other common side effects of having a Nexplanon implant are as follows:
- Breast and/or abdominal pain
There have been reports of other side effects that are less common, such as lower sex drive, higher blood pressure, increased appetite, fatigue, mood swings, nausea, dizziness, hair loss, and hot flashes.
In general, Nexplanon is a good birth control option for many women, but there are some conditions that would warrant the use of some other kind of contraceptive. For instance, Nexplanon is not recommended for pregnant women or those affected by the following conditions:
- Current or previous breast cancer
- Current or previous hematoma
Problems During Insertion And Removal
Nexplanon will be implanted just below the skin, so you can feel it at all times. If Nexplanon is inserted too deeply, it can damage the muscles, tissues, and blood vessels around it. It can also lead to unwanted pregnancies. Very rarely, implants that have been inserted too deeply can move to another part of the body and cause infections. If Nexplanon has been placed incorrectly, it will need to be removed and placed again. If theres ever a time you cant feel the implant, contact your provider immediately and use a barrier method of protection to prevent pregnancy until your provider confirms the implant is in the right place.
Don’t Miss: How Do I Calculate When My Next Period Will Be
Who Might Choose To Use The Contraceptive Implant
A woman who:
- wants effective, long lasting and reversible contraception
- is willing to accept changes to her menstrual cycle.
The implant may be especially suitable if you:
- have difficulty remembering to take birth control pills
- dont like other contraceptive methods or find them unreliable
- cant take the hormone oestrogen.
The implant is one of many different contraceptives. Talk to your health practitioner about the choices available and the one that suits you best.
You May Like: How To Know If Your Getting Your Period
Alternatives For Preventing Pregnancy
Examples of other drugs that may be used to help prevent pregnancy include:
- the birth control ring ethinyl estradiol/etonogestrel vaginal ring
- the birth control patch ethinyl estradiol/norelgestromin patch
- the birth control injection medroxyprogesterone
- the birth control gel citric acid/lactic acid/potassium bitartrate
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about Nexplanon.
Read Also: What To Wear On Your Period
Is It Possible To Have Spotting Or Other Side Effects 1 To 2 Years After Nexplanon Is Inserted
Yes, Nexplanon may cause long-term changes in your period bleeding. So its possible to have spotting or other side effects of Nexplanon 1 to 2 years after its been inserted.
In studies, during the first 2 years of having Nexplanon, some people had more frequent or longer periods, while others had their periods stop completely.
In most cases, any changes to period bleeding will occur in the first 3 months after having Nexplanon inserted. These changes may continue as long as you have the Nexplanon implant.
Talk with your doctor about what you should expect with Nexplanon. Also, talk with them if you have any changes in your period that seem unusual during treatment with Nexplanon.
To learn more about spotting or other changes in period bleeding, see the Side effects explained section below.
If You Just Cant With Your Period Anymore Talk To Your Doctor About The Options At Your Disposal
Dont wait until youre looking to stop your period for a specific window of time, like for a wedding or vacation. Try to give yourself some lead timeif you can give yourself three months, thats better than the month before, Dr. Shirazian says. The longer youre trying methods to stop your period, the more likely they are to give you no bleeding.
Related:
Read Also: How Do You Know If Your Starting Your Period
Bleeding On Implanon Nxt
IMPLANON bleeding changes are a common side effect, and its use has been associated with erratic bleeding patterns. Its important to understand what to expect.
Most progesterone-only contraceptives will impact natural bleeding patterns. Clinical trials have demonstrated that for women with previously regular cycles:
- 20% of women experience very light or no period
- 60% experience spotting
- 20% experience prolonged or frequent spotting or heavier bleeding
Regardless of your bleeding pattern, the contraceptive is still effective.
When Does The Contraceptive Implant Start Working After Giving Birth
After giving birth you are able to have the implant fitted any time and it is fine to use if you are breastfeeding. If fitted up to 21 days after giving birth you will be immediately protected against pregnancy. If the implant is fitted after 21 days, you will need to ensure that you use another method of contraception such as condoms for 7 days after the implant is fitted.
Also Check: Can You Swim On Your Period With A Pad
If You’re Under 16 Years Old
Contraception services are free and confidential, including for people under the age of 16.
If you’re under 16 and want contraception, the doctor, nurse or pharmacist won’t tell your parents as long as they believe you fully understand the information you’re given, and your decisions.
Doctors and nurses work under strict guidelines when dealing with people under 16. They’ll encourage you to consider telling your parents, but they won’t make you.
The only time a professional might want to tell someone else is if they believe you’re at risk of harm, such as abuse. The risk would need to be serious, and they would usually discuss this with you first.
Page last reviewed: 9 March 2021 Next review due: 9 March 2024
Will I Have Bruising Or Itchiness When Nexplanon Is Inserted Or Removed
Its possible that you may experience bruising or itching when your Nexplanon implant is inserted or removed. Although they werent common, these side effects were reported in people who had Nexplanon inserted or removed in studies.
Bruising or itchiness can occur because Nexplanon is inserted under your skin.
For more information about side effects you could have when Nexplanon is inserted or removed, see the Side effects of Nexplanon insertion and removal section above.
Also Check: How To Stop Your Period For A Weekend
How Long Does It Last
Nexplanon is effective for up to 3 years of use. You should have your Nexplanon implant replaced at least once every 3 years.
When you get your Nexplanon implant, your doctor will give you a user card. This card will have the date you received your implant. Itll also include the date it should be removed.
If youd like to have Nexplanon removed sooner than 3 years, talk with your doctor. For more information, see When to have Nexplanon inserted and removed in the Nexplanon insertion and removal section above.
Below is information on Nexplanon dosage. Nexplanon only comes in one strength. So, everyone whos prescribed the drug will receive the same dosage.
What Does The Implant Do To Periods
The implant can have an effect on your menstrual cycle. Whilst this isnt something to worry about, its definitely something to consider before opting for this form of contraception. Many women experience period changes, either becoming lighter, heavier, longer, irregular or stopping completely . You may also experience spotting whilst on Nexplanon. Check out our blog about spotting whilst on contraception.
Also Check: Bleeding But Not On My Period
Could Nexplanon Cause Side Effects After 2 Years
carol23807
I had a 3-year Nexplanon chip inserted almost exactly 2 years ago. I have recently been experiencing symptoms that could be side effects of the insert, but I have not experienced any other side effects at all since the first few months after I initially got the insert .
I’m not sure if these symptoms could be explained by my birth control, or what is causing them, or if it’s entirely normal and I’m overreacting. I feared it was pregnancy, then cancer, but I saw multiple doctors and there were no answers. When I saw my primary care doctor, they referred me to a rheumatologist for my joint pain, and prescribed me omeprazole for my nausea . I went to the emergency room at one point when there was some minor petechiae originating on my ribs, then appearing on my neck and face . At the ER they ran a comprehensive full blood panel as well as a test for Lyme disease , a pregnancy test , and a chest x-ray .
I am not sure what steps to take, and advice would be greatly appreciated. My doctor either doesn’t believe me or doesn’t think the symptoms are significant, but either way they did not address my complaints. Either way, I am worried and not sure what to do.
0 likes, 0 replies
Does Nexplanon Cause Weight Gain
Its possible for Nexplanon to cause weight gain. In fact, weight gain was a common side effect reported in studies of Nexplanon.
In studies, people with Nexplanon gained an average of 2.8 pounds in 1 year and 3.7 lb in 2 years. But its not known how much of the weight gain was due to Nexplanon. Some people in studies had the Nexplanon implant removed due to weight gain.
If you experience weight gain with Nexplanon, you may lose some or all of the weight you gained once the implant is removed.
If youre concerned about weight gain from Nexplanon, talk with your doctor. They may be able to recommend ways to help manage your weight.
Nexplanon is implanted under the skin of your arm. You may experience side effects after your doctor inserts or removes the Nexplanon implant.
Possible side effects from having Nexplanon inserted or removed include:
- thickening of your skin where the implant is inserted
In studies of Nexplanon, side effects after the implant was inserted or removed werent common. But if you have any side effects after getting Nexplanon inserted or removed, talk with your doctor. They can determine the best ways to treat these side effects.
In rare cases, the Nexplanon implant may move within your arm from the site it was inserted. When the implant moves deeper into your arm, it can cause serious symptoms, such as:
- pins and needles feeling
Read Also: How To Deal With Your Period
Nexplanon And Other Forms Of Birth Control
Nexplanon is a form of hormonal birth control thats implanted in your arm. Its approved to help prevent pregnancy.*
You shouldnt need to use any other forms of birth control when youre using Nexplanon unless:
- its the first week after your doctor implants Nexplanon
- you need to take certain medications
In these cases, talk with your doctor about the best form of birth control for you.
* For more information about Nexplanon and pregnancy, see the Nexplanon and pregnancy section above. To learn more about how Nexplanon is inserted, see the Nexplanon insertion and removal section above. For details about these medications, see the Nexplanon interactions section above.