When it comes to birth control, there are numerous options available to individuals seeking to prevent pregnancy, and Nexplanon is one of the most popular long-acting, reversible contraceptives. Nexplanon is a small, flexible rod implanted under the skin of the upper arm, releasing a steady dose of hormones to prevent pregnancy for up to three years. For many women, Nexplanon provides a reliable, low-maintenance birth control option that doesn’t require daily attention, making it an attractive choice.
However, like all forms of contraception, Nexplanon comes with both advantages and disadvantages that should be carefully considered before making a decision. While it offers convenience, effectiveness, and long-term protection, there are some potential side effects and complications that may make it less suitable for certain individuals.
In this article, we will explore the many pros and cons of Nexplanon in great detail. We’ll provide a comprehensive overview of how it works, its benefits, potential drawbacks, and what you should consider before opting for Nexplanon as your primary method of birth control.
What is Nexplanon?
Nexplanon is a small, thin, and flexible implant that is placed just under the skin of the upper arm. The implant contains a hormone called etonogestrel, a form of progestin, which is similar to the hormone progesterone naturally produced by the ovaries. The device works by releasing a small but steady amount of this hormone over time, which prevents pregnancy by inhibiting ovulation, thickening the cervical mucus to prevent sperm from reaching the egg, and thinning the uterine lining to make it less receptive to a fertilized egg.
Nexplanon is one of the most effective methods of birth control available, with a failure rate of less than 1% when used correctly. It provides continuous, long-term contraception without the need for daily attention, making it a popular choice for those who want a “set-it-and-forget-it” method. The device lasts for three years, after which it can be removed and replaced.
How Does Nexplanon Work?
Nexplanon works through the release of the progestin hormone etonogestrel. Once inserted under the skin, it delivers a consistent dose of this hormone over a three-year period. Here’s how it works in detail:
- Inhibition of Ovulation: The hormone in Nexplanon prevents the ovaries from releasing eggs, thus preventing fertilization.
- Thickening of Cervical Mucus: It causes the cervical mucus to thicken, which makes it more difficult for sperm to pass through the cervix and reach an egg.
- Thinning of the Uterine Lining: The hormone also thins the lining of the uterus, reducing the chances of a fertilized egg implanting if fertilization were to occur.
Nexplanon’s highly effective mechanism of action ensures that it is a reliable form of birth control for most individuals. The device is also discreet, as it’s placed just under the skin, and there’s no need for daily action like with birth control pills.
Pros of Nexplanon
1. Highly Effective Birth Control
Nexplanon is one of the most effective forms of contraception available. With a failure rate of less than 1%, it offers reliable pregnancy prevention for up to three years. Once implanted, you don’t have to worry about taking a daily pill, remembering to change a patch, or using other forms of contraception each time you have sex. This makes Nexplanon a great option for individuals who may struggle with consistency or forgetfulness when it comes to taking other birth control methods.
Additionally, because Nexplanon works continuously over a long period without requiring any further action on your part, it eliminates the risk of human error that might occur with other forms of contraception.
2. Long-Lasting Protection
One of the most attractive features of Nexplanon is its long-term protection. The device provides continuous contraceptive coverage for three full years. Once implanted, you don’t have to worry about remembering to replace it each month or even every year, as you would with other methods like the pill, patch, or shot. If you’re looking for a “set-it-and-forget-it” method that won’t require your daily attention, Nexplanon offers a convenient solution that provides peace of mind.
When the three-year period is over, the implant can easily be replaced with a new one, ensuring continued protection.
3. Reversible and Easily Removed
If you decide that you no longer want Nexplanon, it can be removed at any time by a healthcare professional. Once the implant is removed, fertility typically returns quickly, often within a few weeks to months. This makes Nexplanon a great option for those who want long-term contraception without committing to permanent sterilization procedures like tubal ligation. If you decide to have a baby, simply remove the implant, and your chances of conceiving return to normal shortly thereafter.
This reversibility makes Nexplanon a versatile option for women who want long-term birth control but may wish to conceive in the future.
4. Minimal Maintenance and Convenience
Nexplanon requires little maintenance after insertion. Unlike oral contraceptives or other hormonal methods that require daily attention, Nexplanon works continuously for three years without any action required on the user’s part. There’s no need to keep track of daily pills, weekly patches, or monthly injections. Once the implant is in place, it’s out of sight and out of mind, providing the user with maximum convenience.
For individuals who are busy or have trouble remembering daily tasks, this ease of use is one of Nexplanon’s most appealing features.
5. No Daily Action Required
One of the key advantages of Nexplanon is that it doesn’t require any daily action from the user. For many individuals, remembering to take a daily birth control pill can be a hassle, and skipping a dose can result in unplanned pregnancies. Nexplanon’s implantable nature eliminates this concern altogether. Once the implant is inserted, you don’t have to worry about missing a dose or taking a pill at the same time every day.
This makes Nexplanon particularly useful for those who may have difficulty staying consistent with daily routines, such as people with busy lifestyles or memory issues.
6. Hormonal Contraception Without Estrogen
Nexplanon provides hormonal contraception without using estrogen, which can be a major advantage for individuals who cannot tolerate estrogen due to health concerns such as high blood pressure, migraines, or a history of blood clots. Since Nexplanon only contains the hormone progestin (etonogestrel), it avoids many of the risks associated with estrogen-containing birth control options like the pill, patch, or ring.
For those who are sensitive to estrogen, Nexplanon can be a viable and effective alternative.
7. Improvement in Menstrual Cycle Regularity for Some Users
For some users, Nexplanon can improve the regularity of their menstrual cycles. Many women experience lighter, less painful periods, and some may even stop having periods altogether. This can be particularly appealing to women who suffer from painful menstrual cycles, endometriosis, or other menstrual disorders.
While this benefit isn’t guaranteed for everyone, it can be a significant perk for those who struggle with heavy or painful periods.
8. Reduced Risk of Ovarian Cysts
Nexplanon works by preventing ovulation, which can reduce the risk of developing ovarian cysts. Some women who are prone to ovarian cysts may find that Nexplanon reduces their occurrence. For individuals who have experienced ovarian cysts in the past or have a family history of them, this may be an important consideration when choosing a birth control method.
While this is not a universal benefit, it can be an added advantage for certain users.
9. Discreet and Low-Visibility
Once implanted, Nexplanon is discreet and not noticeable by others. The implant is placed just under the skin of the upper arm, and while it may be felt by touch, it is usually not visible unless you know where to look. This can be especially important for individuals who prefer a low-profile form of contraception or those who may feel self-conscious about using more visible methods like condoms or birth control patches.
Cons of Nexplanon
1. Potential Side Effects
As with any form of hormonal birth control, Nexplanon comes with potential side effects. These can include headaches, mood changes, acne, weight gain, and breast tenderness. While these side effects are generally mild, some users may find them bothersome or difficult to tolerate. Hormonal changes can affect each individual differently, and some women may experience more severe side effects than others. It’s important to consult with a healthcare provider to weigh the potential risks and determine if Nexplanon is a good fit for you.
2. Irregular or Absent Periods
While many women experience lighter, more regular periods with Nexplanon, some may encounter irregular bleeding or no periods at all. Although this can be a benefit for some, it can be a cause for concern for others. Spotting or breakthrough bleeding is common, especially in the first few months after insertion. This can be frustrating for individuals who are accustomed to regular periods. If this side effect becomes persistent or bothersome, it may require medical attention or consideration of an alternative form of birth control.
3. Insertion and Removal Procedures
Inserting and removing Nexplanon requires a minor surgical procedure. The implant is placed under the skin in the upper arm by a healthcare provider, and while the procedure is relatively quick, it can cause discomfort and has a small risk of complications, such as infection or scarring. Removal of the implant at the end of its three-year lifespan also requires a medical procedure, which may involve local anesthesia and could result in discomfort.
Although the procedures are generally straightforward, some individuals may feel apprehensive about the need for a medical professional to handle the insertion and removal.
4. Possible Weight Gain
Some women may experience weight gain while using Nexplanon. This side effect can be related to hormonal changes and may occur due to fluid retention, changes in appetite, or metabolic changes. While not all users will experience weight gain, it is a potential side effect that should be considered. If weight gain becomes noticeable or troubling, users may need to evaluate if Nexplanon is the right contraceptive method for them.
5. Skin Irritation at Insertion Site
After the Nexplanon implant is inserted, some individuals may experience skin irritation at the insertion site. This can include redness, swelling, or bruising, although these symptoms typically subside within a few days. In some cases, more severe reactions can occur, such as infection or scarring. It’s important to follow proper care instructions to minimize the risk of irritation or infection, but this remains a concern for some users.
6. Possible Emotional Side Effects
Some women report mood changes while using Nexplanon. This may include feelings of depression, anxiety, or irritability, which can impact mental well-being. These emotional side effects can be distressing for those who are sensitive to hormonal changes. While not everyone will experience these effects, it is important to discuss any mental health concerns with a healthcare provider when considering Nexplanon.
7. Not Suitable for Everyone
Nexplanon may not be suitable for individuals with certain health conditions, such as liver disease, blood clots, or a history of breast cancer. Women who are breastfeeding may also want to consult their healthcare provider before opting for Nexplanon, as the hormone released from the implant can affect milk production. It’s essential to undergo a thorough medical evaluation to ensure that Nexplanon is safe for you, especially if you have a medical history that could impact your ability to use hormonal birth control safely.
8. Cost of Insertion and Removal
While the cost of Nexplanon can be relatively affordable when compared to the ongoing cost of other birth control methods, the initial insertion and subsequent removal can be expensive. The procedure typically requires a visit to a healthcare provider, and costs can vary depending on your insurance coverage. Additionally, some individuals may need to pay for follow-up appointments if complications arise, making the overall cost of Nexplanon higher than anticipated for some.
9. Risk of Infection at Insertion Site
As with any medical procedure that involves inserting a device under the skin, there is a small risk of infection at the insertion site. Although infections are rare, they can occur, especially if the area isn’t kept clean or if post-procedure instructions aren’t followed. Infections can lead to complications that may require antibiotics or even the removal of the implant.
Conclusion
Nexplanon offers a highly effective, long-lasting, and convenient form of birth control, with the added benefits of reversibility and minimal maintenance. For individuals seeking a low-maintenance contraceptive that doesn’t require daily attention, Nexplanon provides an ideal solution. However, it is important to consider the potential side effects and limitations of the method, including irregular periods, emotional side effects, and the cost of insertion and removal.
Before opting for Nexplanon, it’s crucial to have an in-depth conversation with your healthcare provider about your medical history and any concerns you may have. As with any birth control method, the right choice depends on your individual health, lifestyle, and preferences. By weighing both the pros and cons, you can make an informed decision that suits your needs and ensures the best possible contraceptive experience.