Author: Holly Todd, WHNP-BC

According to a major study by the Guttmatcher Institute, “More than 99% of women aged 15–44 who have ever had sexual intercourse have used at least one contraceptive method.” The majority of these women are using “the Pill,” a daily hormone-combination drug that prevents pregnancy. The pill has one major problem though…

You have to remember to take it at the same time every day.

And missing a day can be risky, as a skipped dosage could weaken the therapy’s effectiveness and lead to pregnancy. Many women who don’t want to have to remember a pill every day have turned to NEXPLANON, an implantable contraceptive that’s placed in the upper arm.

What Is NEXPLANON?

NEXPLANON is a small implant (just 1.6 inches) that is inserted just under the skin on the inside of the upper arm. The NEXPLANON device can stay here for three years. It works by gradually releasing a progestin hormone called etonogestrel. This hormone offers continuous pregnancy prevention. You don’t have to do anything else. It just works.

If you want birth control for longer than three years, you simply have your health care provider remove the old device and place a new one in your arm after the three-year mark. If you decide you want to get pregnant while you have the device, simply have your health care provider remove it, and you may become pregnant as early as one week following removal of the device.

As far as effectiveness is concerned, patients should have no worries. NEXPLANON is over 99 percent effective – just like the pill.

Does NEXPLANON Hurt?

Inserting the device is a simple, in-office procedure with very little or no pain. The area is numbed before the device is inserted. It’s normal to feel some soreness in the arm for a few days following the birth control implant. After this goes away, you don’t have to even think about the device for the next three years.

Is NEXPLANON Right for Me?

If you want a birth control option that doesn’t require any thought, action, or planning on your part, NEXPLANON could be a great option. NEXPLANON isn’t right for everyone, including women who have blood clots, diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and some other health issues. Your provider at Arizona Associates for Women’s Health can tell you more.

NEXPLANON In Arizona: Schedule An Appointment

To learn more about NEXPLANON and other birth control implants, contact us to schedule an appointment. Read more about birth control here.

Please consult with your provider before undertaking any form of medical treatment or adopting any exercise program or dietary guidelines.