Nexplanon ^*

Nexplanon is over 99% effective at preventing pregnancy when inserted correctly. This makes it one of the most effective forms of birth control available today. Its high effectiveness is due to its continuous release of hormones, which removes the risk of human error associated with methods like daily pills. The implant works for up to three years before it needs to be replaced.

The Nexplanon implant is FDA-approved to prevent pregnancy for up to three years. After three years, its effectiveness decreases, and it should be removed by a healthcare professional. If you wish to continue using this method, a new implant can be inserted during the same appointment that the old one is removed. You should keep track of your removal date.

Getting Nexplanon inserted or removed involves a minor procedure in a doctor’s office. Your healthcare provider will use a local anesthetic to numb the area on your arm, so you should feel little to no pain during the insertion or removal process. You may experience some mild soreness, bruising, or swelling at the site afterward, which typically resolves within a few days.

Yes, Nexplanon can be removed by a trained healthcare professional at any point before the three-year mark if you decide you no longer want it. Whether you are experiencing side effects or wish to become pregnant, you can schedule an appointment for removal. It is a fully reversible contraceptive method, and your ability to get pregnant will return quickly after removal.

Nexplanon very often causes changes in menstrual bleeding patterns. Many users experience irregular bleeding, especially in the first 6-12 months. Your periods could become lighter, heavier, more frequent, less frequent, or stop altogether. These changes are a common side effect of the progestin hormone and are not usually a sign of a serious problem. Talk to your doctor if you have concerns.

Nexplanon's contraceptive effect is reversible, and fertility typically returns very quickly after the implant is removed. Most women can become pregnant in the first month following removal. If you have the implant removed but do not wish to become pregnant, it is crucial to start using another form of birth control immediately to prevent an unintended pregnancy.

Nexplanon does not provide any protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including HIV/AIDS. To protect yourself from STIs, you must use a barrier method such as a condom every time you have sex. Nexplanon is solely a contraceptive designed to prevent pregnancy. It is important to use dual protection if you are at risk for STIs.

Nexplanon lists weight gain as a possible side effect in clinical trials, and some users do report it. However, research on whether progestin-only methods directly cause significant weight gain is mixed. Changes in appetite or fluid retention may occur. If you experience significant or concerning weight changes after getting the implant, you should discuss it with your healthcare provider.

Nexplanon may be slightly less effective in women with a higher body mass index (BMI), specifically those weighing over 130% of their ideal body weight. However, it is still considered a highly effective option for most women, regardless of weight. If you have concerns about how your weight might impact the effectiveness of Nexplanon, you should discuss them with your doctor.

Nexplanon is generally considered a safe birth control option for breastfeeding mothers. Small amounts of the hormone may pass into breast milk, but studies have not shown this to be harmful to the baby. It is often recommended to wait until about four weeks after childbirth to have the implant inserted. Always consult your doctor to ensure it is the right choice for you and your baby.

You should be able to feel the small Nexplanon rod under your skin by gently pressing with your fingertips over the insertion area on your arm. Your doctor will show you how to do this after insertion. Check for it periodically. If you can ever not feel the implant, contact your healthcare provider right away and use a non-hormonal backup birth control method.

Certain medications and herbal supplements can make Nexplanon less effective by speeding up its breakdown in the body. These include some seizure medications, antibiotics like rifampin, St. John's Wort, and some drugs used to treat HIV. Always inform your doctor and pharmacist that you have a Nexplanon implant before starting any new medication so they can check for interactions.