How Long Is Nexplanon Good For?

Many choose Nexplanon for birth control as it provides lasting protection from unplanned pregnancies.
Yet, you might wonder how long is Nexplanon good for as a contraceptive?
If you’re considering Nexplanon, details like how long it works and what affects its performance can be important.
In this blog, you’ll get all these facts to help you make an informed choice about your reproductive health.

Purpose of Nexplanon and Its Mechanism of Action

Let’s start talking about Nexplanon and how it works. Nexplanon is birth control. It’s a slim, flexible rod that’s tucked under the skin of your upper arm.
It slowly lets out etonogestrel, a key pregnancy-preventing hormone.
How does it work? Here are a few key functions:

First, it stops ovulation, blocking the release of eggs from the ovaries.
Next, it makes cervical mucus thick, hard for sperm to reach an egg for fertilization.
Finally, it makes the uterine lining thin, not an ideal place for a fertilized egg to attach. Nexplanon’s broad approach makes it a trustworthy choice for those who want contraception.

How Long Is Nexplanon Good For as a Contraceptive?

Nexplanon is a little, rod-like birth control device that goes under the skin of your upper arm. It secrets special hormones, called progestins, over three years.
These hormones work to keep eggs from leaving the ovaries, make the mucus at the entrance of the womb thicker, and make the womb lining itself thinner.
These changes stop pregnancy.
After three years, the rate at which this device releases hormones drops, making it less efficient at preventing pregnancy.
Hence, it’s essential to replace the Nexplanon then to continue preventing pregnancies effectively.

Factors Affecting Nexplanon’s Effectiveness – The Role of Body Weight

Nexplanon’s impact can vary with body weight. In heavier people, it might not work as well because there are lower hormone levels in their blood.
The device gives out a steady hormone dose, which might be less potent for people with more body mass.
It’s smart to regularly check in with a health professional to keep the contraception working at its best.

The Importance of Regular Check-ups and Replacement

Seeing your doctor routinely is key to make sure Nexplanon is doing its job. During these visits, your doctor can make sure the implant is in the right spot and talk about any side effects or issues you’re having.
Always arrange a follow-up visit before it hits the third year; keeping consistent protection is vital.

How Long Does Nexplanon Hurt After Insertion?

You might feel a bit sore or notice a bruise after the procedure – it’s normal. Usually, this goes away as you get better.
But if Nexplanon pinching or pain hangs on, or you see redness, swelling, or possible infection signs like heat or fluid, let your doctor know immediately.
They can check out the problem, set you up with the right care, and make sure healing happens as it should.

Is Nexplanon Removal Painful?

Does it hurt to get Nexplanon removed? Usually, taking out Nexplanon is simple and requires just a minor surgery.
A healthcare professional does it. Many women say it doesn’t hurt much. To help the patient stay comfortable, the doctor uses a local anesthetic.
This makes the place where the implant is numb. They do this so that the patient feels no pain and is comfortable during the removal.

Misconceptions About Nexplanon

There are a few misunderstandings about Nexplanon that could lead to unnecessary worry. One fallacy says Nexplanon can roam around the body. The truth is that Nexplanon stays put under the skin of your upper arm.
Although rare, it can move a bit but never to other body parts. Another false belief is that Nexplanon results in infertility. The normal fertility usually comes back shortly after removal, most often within weeks to months.

Where to Get Nexplanon Near Me?

Looking for a Nexplanon service? It’s easy. First, touch base with your primary doctor or gynecologist. They can either do the Nexplanon process or guide you to a specialist.
Plenty of clinics and health departments provide Nexplanon help, too.
Online toolkits, directories, and your insurance firm can help you find the right place in your locality.
Double-check that the provider is experienced and skilled in Nexplanon application to be sure of the quality of care you get.

Takeaway

Essentially, Nexplanon is a dependable, lasting birth control option for many. Knowing how it functions, how long it lasts, and the importance of regular check-ins will help you use Nexplanon to its maximum.

Got more queries or thinking about Nexplanon? A healthcare provider is the best person to talk to to confirm if it’s the right method for you.

Contact Primary Care of Kansas today if you need additional information on Nexplanon – we offer comprehensive women’s health services.

FAQs

How long is Nexplanon good for?

For up to three years, once inserted, Nexplanon works well.

How to stop spotting on Nexplanon?

Spotting can happen; it’s normal. Talk to your medical professional for possible fixes; they might suggest hormonal options.

Can I get a discharge on Nexplanon?

It’s possible for vaginal discharge to happen while on Nexplanon. Chatting with your medical professional is crucial if it’s unusual in color, smell, or texture

When to take a pregnancy test on Nexplanon?

If you think you might be pregnant or if you miss periods while using Nexplanon, do a pregnancy test and call your medical professional.

What are some side effects of expired Nexplanon?

If Nexplanon is expired, it may not be as effective and the chance of unexpected pregnancies increases. Your medical professional should remove and replace it.
Expired Nexplanon symptoms can look like:

Irregular bleeding or spotting
Changes in menstrual cycles
Symptoms like nausea

How long does the implant take to heal?

A few days is often enough for the implant site to heal, although sometimes minor bruising or discomfort can last about a week. Make sure to follow the aftercare instructions provided by your medical professional.