What is the Nexplanon contraceptive implant?

Nexplanon is a small flexible rod which contains the hormone progestin that is inserted into the upper inner arm. They are most often used as a birth control method to prevent pregnancy and are 99.9% effective. Others may use them for other reasons such as to manage period symptoms or decrease their bleeding.

Nexplanon is a commonly used birth control method for people of all ages in their reproductive years. It can be used regardless of whether or not you have been pregnant and is also private so no one can tell if you have one except for you and possibly your partner. You will be left with a scar on your inner arm that is the size of a sesame seed. It will not have an effect on your future fertility and if you want to get pregnant there is no waiting period for trying to conceive.

What is the difference between Nexplanon and Implanon?

Nexplanon is the newer version of the two. The only difference is that Nexplanon can be seen with imaging such as an x-ray, whereas Implanon was not visible on imaging.

What is the insertion like?

You would have your Nexplanon inserted in the clinic by a medical provider. You can get it inserted at any point during your cycle. Here are some helpful tips for your insertion:

• Try to stay well hydrated for several days leading up to your appointment

• Eat something before your appointment

• You can drive yourself home after your Nexplanon insertion, or if you want you can bike or walk. 

• If you are currently on another birth control method, continue using it until your appointment, if possible

• If you are not using a birth control method and are having penis-in-vagina sex you should use a barrier method such as condoms or the pull-out method until your insertion

The insertion process will take about 5 minutes and consists of a shot of numbing medication which feels like a pinch and burning feeling for 10 to 30 seconds. Afterwards, you won’t actually feel the insertion of the Nexplanon.

After the insertion you will leave with a wrap around your arm that will stay in place for 24 hours and a bandaid which will be there for 3 to 5 days. You should avoid showering for 24 hours after your insertion to keep the outer bandage dry. After that you can shower with the bandaid and you can change it to a new one if needed.