How does it work?

The Nexplanon is placed just under the skin in the arm. Your body absorbs a small amount of progesterone every day which prevents you from ovulating. If you don’t ovulate, you cannot get pregnant.

How do you insert the Nexplanon?

The insertion process is very easy, with minimal discomfort. Local anesthesia is used to numb a small part of your upper arm, after which the Nexplanon is gently inserted just below the skin. The Nexplanon is only 4cm long and is placed discreetly on the inside of the arm where it will not be noticed. The whole process takes about ten minutes.

How effective is it?

The Nexplanon is 99.9% effective.

Will it make me gain weight?

The Nexplanon is not associated with any weight gain.

What hormones are in the Nexplanon?

Nexplanon has etonogestrel, which is a type of progesterone.

What happens if I keep the Nexplanon in for longer than three years?

If the Nexplanon is left in for longer than three years, it may not  protect you from getting pregnant.

Does it protect me from STIs?

The Nexplanon does not protect from any sexually transmitted infections.

Are there any long term effects of using the Nexplanon? Am I going to get cancer?

There are no long term side effects of using the Nexplanon and it does not cause cancer. Once you remove the Nexplanon, you will quickly return to fertility.

Can I use the Nexplanon when I’m breastfeeding?

Yes, the Nexplanon is safe to use while breastfeeding.

What are the side effects?

The most common side effect of the Nexplanon is unpredictable spotting. This type of spotting is very common with progesterone-only forms of birth control. This does not mean it is not working. Talk to your health care provider about these side effects before removing the Nexplanon as they may be able to help.

Who shouldn’t take the Nexplanon?

The Nexplanon should not be used in women who:

  • Are pregnant
  • Have a current or past history of blood clots
  • Have liver tumors or active liver disease
  • Have undiagnosed genital bleeding
  • Have known or suspected breast cancer, personal history of breast cancer or other progestin-sensitive cancer
  • Have an allergic reaction to any of the components of Nexplanon