What is Nexplanon?

Looking for a new method of birth control? HealthNet Certified Nurse Midwife, Patti Bodie explains Nexplanon, a small flexible birth control implant providing up to 3 years of continuous pregnancy prevention. Formally known as Implanon, Nexplanon is the “next” updated version of Implanon that releases a progestin hormone call Etonogestrel.

How long is Nexplanon effective? Nexplanon is effective for up to 3 years. It can be removed before 3 years or a new implant can be inserted at the same time the old one is removed. It releases a progestin hormone called etonogestrel. Nexplanon does not contain estrogen.

How effective is Nexplanon?
Nexplanon is over 99% effective in preventing pregnancy. 

How does Nexplanon actually work?
Nexplanon keeps the egg from being released by your ovaries and prevents sperm from reaching the egg by delivering a steady, low dose of hormones into your bloodstream.

How is Nexplanon placed ?
A small amount of numbing medication is placed at the site of insertion (inside your upper arm), the Nexplanon is then placed under the skin, a pressure bandage is applied. The actually time to do the insertion is a matter of minutes.

How is Nexplanon removed?
A small amount of numbing medication is placed near the insertion site, a small incision is made in the skin, the rod is then removed and a pressure bandage is applied. Again, the removal is very quick and easy.

Who do I know if I am a good candidate for Nexplanon? Almost anyone is a good candidate! Anyone who cannot use estrogen containing birth control methods, breastfeeding moms, teenagers, peri-menopausal women and most anyone in between.

You should not use Nexplanon if you know you are pregnant, have or have had blood clots, liver disease, a liver tumor, breast cancer, or any other cancer that is sensitive to Progestin, or are allergic to anything in Nexplanon.

There are some risks related to insertion and removal, which can include pain, irritation, swelling, bruising, scarring, infection at site, or breaking of the implant. Common side effects also include a change in your normal menstrual bleeding pattern which includes, longer or shorter bleeding duration. Spotting between periods can also occur or you may stop your periods all together. Other possible side effects are acne, mood swings/depression, breast pain and pain at insertion site.

Interested in Nexplanon? Nexplanon is currently available at HealthNet Southwest Health Center. Please call 317-957-2500 to make an appointment.

 

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