The number of birth control methods on the market is truly impressive, so anyone can pick the one they’d be most comfortable with. IUDs, pills, caps, condoms, and numerous others — the best one is picked after the consultation with a trained healthcare professional and a careful check-up in the doctor’s office. One of the most popular, long-term hormonal birth control methods is Nexplanon – a contraceptive implant that comes in the form of a capsule and is able to provide long-term results. But is it true that this brand may stop periods? Is it a myth or something to be concerned about? Let’s find out together in this article!
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A Few Words About Nexplanon Birth Control
Nexplanon is a prescription birth control method that comes in the form of a capsule-like elastic implant meant to be inserted under the skin of the shoulder. The procedure is not painful, and you cannot feel the implant once it’s inserted due to its tiny size — just 2 mm wide. The insertion is not painful as well because specialists always use a local anesthetic before the procedure (although alternative methods may be considered if a person has a known allergy to numbing medicines, anesthetics, or medicines used to reduce pain during the insertion). Both the removal and insertion must be performed by a medical professional.
This type of contraceptive contains a synthetic hormone similar to progestin, a female hormone. Once the implant is inserted, it starts releasing low doses of progestin daily to prevent unwanted pregnancy. Typically, women experience their normal menstrual bleeding pattern, but we recommend to call your healthcare professional if any warning side effects occur. Some patients are safer with non-hormonal birth control.
However, if Nexplanon is a suitable option, its effectiveness may continue for up to 3 years, which is an excellent term, especially if compared to other options. It’s also worth mentioning that you should still use condoms just to be safe and to prevent STDs, especially if you have multiple sexual partners.
The Advantages of Contraceptive Implants
Nexplanon is known for its incredible abilities and safety, as well as comfort that most patients appreciate the most (some women just can’t handle an IUD and are constantly worried about its placement). So, what are the main advantages of this brand?
- It has a high effectiveness — up to 99%;
- The longevity is quite impressive and very comfortable in the hustle of the modern world, up to 3 years;
- Ovulation can be restored within 3 weeks after the birth control removal (this factor may vary from patient to patient).
Breast Pain and Other Negative Side Effects of Nexplanon
Once Nexplanon is inserted, the most common side effect that women experience is changes in the pattern of the menstrual cycle. Some may stop bleeding, some experience changes in the longevity of their periods, and some may experience unexpected irregular bleeding. Other common adverse reactions include headache, acne, breast tenderness, weight gain, and mood swings. Still, all of these can be taken under control if you contact a medical professional on time.
You shouldn’t be using Nexplanon in case of these issues: diabetes, high cholesterol or triglycerides, headaches, gallbladder or kidney problems, history of depressed mood, high blood pressure, allergy to numbing medicines (anesthetics), or medicines used to clean your skin (antiseptics). Inform a healthcare professional right away if you have liver disease or a liver tumor, have unexplained vaginal bleeding, have breast cancer or any other cancer that is sensitive to progestin (a female hormone), now or in the past, or if you are allergic to anything in Nexplanon.
Can Periods Stop While Using Nexplanon?
About 1 in 5 women will stop menstruating after Nexplanon insertion, but it’s not a universal rule. Everything depends on one’s body and health peculiarities, which is why careful observation by a medical professional is required. Still, this symptom is not dangerous and cannot harm a person.
What to Do Before You Stop Using Nexplanon?
Women stop using Nexplanon due to multiple reasons: some would like to start a family, while others want to try another form of birth control. The hormone levels from Nexplanon drop pretty quickly after its removal, so it is possible to get pregnant almost immediately. That’s why you should use another form of contraception if you don’t plan to start a family.
Note: In case you do plan to get pregnant after Nexplanon removal, we recommend taking a folic acid supplement (400mcg a day) for 3 months prior to having the Nexplanon removed. The supplement is available at any pharmacy, and it’s a good option to reduce the risks during pregnancy.
The Bottom Line
Nexplanon is an effective and safe contraceptive brand that is loved and used by dozens of thousands of women. It’s a comfortable form of birth control, typically inserted into the upper arm to release small portions of progestin daily, and thus prevent unwanted pregnancies. One of the common side effects women experience is changes in their periods patterns, and some patients stop having periods altogether. This symptom is not dangerous and is quite common for such products. However, we recommend contacting a doctor if you are worried about this symptom. Being careful is always welcomed, especially when it comes to such a sensitive topic as planning the family.