Is NEXPLANON Right for You?
NEXPLANON is a contraceptive implant for patients who experience menstruation or have the potential to become pregnant. The implant can also help with painful or heavy menstrual cycles. The hormones in the implant can ease cramps and sometimes make periods lighter.
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This implant is long-acting, reversible, and helps prevent pregnancy. It is a convenient alternative to oral contraceptives, intrauterine devices, or other methods. No birth control method is 100% effective. If you are concerned about the risk of pregnancy, you should talk to your healthcare provider about all your options.
How Does NEXPLANON Work?
NEXPLANON is a small, flexible rod inserted under the skin of the upper arm by a Metro Pediatrics provider. It releases a steady dose of the hormone progestin, which prevents ovulation (the release of an egg from the ovary). It also thickens cervical mucus, making it difficult for sperm to reach the egg.
What Are the Risks of NEXPLANON?
- Pregnancy (if the implant is ineffective)
- Changes in menstrual bleeding patterns (irregular, lighter, heavier, or periods may stop completely)
- Scarring at the insertion site
- Pain
- Infection
What to Expect When Getting NEXPLANON
NEXPLANON insertion is a quick and easy procedure performed in our clinics. Here’s what you can expect:
- You’ll meet with your healthcare provider to discuss your health history and answer any questions.
- Your provider will numb the area where the implant will be placed.
- They’ll make a small incision in your upper arm and insert the implant under the skin.
- You’ll have a bandage on the site for a few days, and you may experience some tenderness and bruising.
Important Things to Know About NEXPLANON
- It is important to have the implant placed at the appropriate time in your menstrual cycle.
- You should be able to feel the implant under your skin following the procedure.
- The implant must be removed after 3 years, though it can be removed sooner if you choose. Removal is typically performed in our clinic.
- NEXPLANON does not prevent the transmission of HIV/AIDS or any other sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
- Most people who use NEXPLANON experience changes in their menstrual bleeding patterns. Your bleeding may be irregular, lighter, or heavier, or it may stop altogether. Other common side effects include weight gain and mood swings.
How to Care for NEXPLANON After the Procedure
- Leave the bandage on for 24 hours.
- Use additional contraception as a backup birth control method (for example, condoms) for 7 days after insertion to help prevent pregnancy.
- Remember that NEXPLANON does not protect you from sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
When to Call Your Doctor
Contact your doctor right away if any of the following occur:
- You can’t feel the NEXPLANON implant in your arm.
- You have any signs of infection, such as redness, persistent tenderness, or swelling.
- You have any numbness or tingling in your arm.
- You want to have NEXPLANON removed.
- You think you may be pregnant.
- You have any other questions or concerns.
