It is aprogestin-only contraceptiveand protects against pregnancy for three years.
It is over 99% effective.
It is not visibly noticeable, but you may feel it if you run your fingers over your skin.
Verywell / Cindy Chung
The most common side effect of Nexplanon is irregular menstrual bleeding.
This article covers how Nexplanon works and what to expect if you are thinking about getting one.
How Does Nexplanon Work?
Nexplanon continuously releases a low dose of a synthetic progestin called etonogestrel for up to three years of use.
This prevents pregnancy by :
The machine delivers progestin in decreasing amounts over three years.
In most people, ovulation resumes within six weeks of having Nexplanon removed.
To continue to be protected against pregnancy, a new implant or another form of birth control is needed.
How Is Nexplanon Implanted?
Nexplanon is inserted under the skin of your upper arm by a trained medical professional.
Before implantation, you will be given a local anesthetic to numb the area.
Your healthcare provider will then use a special applicator that will guide Nexplanon under the skin of your arm.
The insertion process only takes a few minutes.
The most common side effects of the implantation are short-term pain and swelling.
What Is the Difference Between Nexplanon and Implanon?
Nexplanon differs from its predecessor Implanon in a number of key ways.
As a result, many rods were implanted far too deeply.
This could cause vascular and nerve injury, and it also makes them less effective.
Nexplanon also has an improved applicator.
How Effective Is Nexplanon?
Nexplanon is 99.9% effective when inserted correctly.
With typical use, 1 of every 100 women who use Nexplanon for a year will become pregnant.
Hormonal birth control, including Nexplanon, may be less effective if you haveoverweightor obesity.
This is because the concentration of hormone actively circulating in your blood will be lower.
Benefits of Nexplanon
There are many lifestyle and health benefits to consider when deciding to use Nexplanon.
What Are the Side Effects of Nexplanon?
About one in five people will not have a period at all when using Nexplanon.
Another 1 in 5 people will have frequent and/or prolonged bleeding.
If Nexplanon is inserted too deeply, nerve or vascular injury may occur.
This can lead to the development of hematomas (blood clots) orparesthesia(abnormal sensations).
Both can become serious if left untreated.
Removal complications can also occur if the rod was improperly placed.
In some cases, the rod can migrate from its original position and require costly surgical extraction.
The incorrect placement of the rod can also prevent the progestin from releasing properly.
This increases the risk of pregnancy and the likelihood of an ectopic (tubal) pregnancy.
Who Should Not Get Nexplanon?
Nexplanon is a safe birth control option for most healthy people, but it is not for everyone.
How Much Does Nexplanon Cost?
Nexplanon prices vary, generally ranging from $800 to $1,300.
Is Nexplanon Covered by Insurance?
There could be a copay for the implantation and removal.
To avoid surprises, always check with your insurer to determine what your totalout-of-pocket costswill be.
Nexplanon is more than 99% effective at preventing pregnancy for up to three years.
Nexplanon isn’t right for everyone.
If you are thinking about getting it, contact your provider for medical advice.
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