Nexplanon: Contraceptive Implant

Nexplanon: Birth Control Implant in Arm

At Maiden Lane Medical, we understand the significance of choosing a reliable birth control method that aligns with your lifestyle and preferences. Nexplanon, a discreet and long-term implant placed beneath the skin of the upper arm, offers a highly effective solution for preventing unplanned pregnancies.

Here’s a glance at what makes Nexplanon a great choice:

• Nexplanon is more than 99% effective.
• Once implanted, no further action is needed until it is time for renewal.
• It does not affect estrogen levels.
• It is well suited to women who have difficulty remembering to take the contraceptive pill.
• It can easily be taken out at short notice.
• Natural fertility returns very quickly after having the implant.
• Your period regularity may alter or become heavier/lighter.
• Some medications can reduce the implant’s effectiveness.
• Nexplanon does not protect you from STIs or STDs

How Does Nexplanon Work?

The Nexplanon is a small, matchstick-sized implant inserted discreetly beneath the skin of the upper arm. This implant works by releasing progestogen steadily into the bloodstream. This hormone prevents ovulation.

Working continuously, the implant releases hormones that prevent ovulation, thickens cervical mucus to impede sperm movement, and thins the uterine lining. These actions collectively provide reliable protection against unplanned pregnancies.

One of the significant advantages of Nexplanon is its long-lasting nature, offering protection for up to three years. Moreover, it does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). 

When it Starts to Work

Although the implant can be administered at any time, if it is fitted after the first 5 days of your menstrual cycle, you will be required to still use other forms of contraceptive for the subsequent 7 days. Protection is immediate if fitted during the first 5 days of your cycle, before day 21 of giving birth, and immediately after an abortion or miscarriage.

How is a Contraceptive Implant Fitted or Removed?

The Nexplanon implant is an incredibly quick and painless procedure. First, a local anesthetic will be applied to the upper arm to numb the area, and then your doctor or nurse will ‘inject’ the small flexible rod just under your skin.

The incision is slightly bigger than a typical injection, but there will be no need for stitches, and any bleeding will subside relatively quickly.

After 3 years, it will be time to have your implant removed. This process is equally straightforward and involves a minimal incision and removal via a tweezer-like instrument.

Advantages and Disadvantages of the Implant

Below, you will find some of the advantages and disadvantages of this implant:

Advantages

• It lasts for 3 years
• Is not intrusive to your sex life
• It is a good alternative to estrogen-based contraception
• Safe for use during breastfeeding
• Quick return to regular fertility
• It can offer relief to heavy/painful periods

Disadvantages

• Some people experience initial side effects, including headaches, nausea, and depression.
• Periods can stop entirely.
• Might make you more prone to spots.
• It offers no protection from STIs or STDs.

Will Other Medicines Affect the Implant?

Some medications have been found to make the Nexplanon implant less effective; these include HIV medicine, some antibiotics, and ‘complementary’ remedies, such as St Johns Wort.

Always consult your doctor if you are required to take other medications/prescriptions. If any are thought to interfere with the effectiveness of your chosen contraceptive, Maiden Lane Medical will always try our hardest to suggest suitable alternatives.

Risks of the Implant

There are very few risks associated with the Nexplanon implant, and very few women experience any negative side effects of the contraceptive.

One of the risk factors of Nexplanon includes infection from the incision made during administration or removal, but this can be easily cleared up with antibiotics.

The implant is placed inside of the upper arm, making it a very low-risk area for bumps and bruises. If, however, you do hurt yourself there, or you feel as if your implant has moved, been damaged or has misshapen, you should consult your doctor as soon as possible and refrain from having sexual intercourse without other contraceptive precautions.

Some users may experience changes in their menstrual cycle, such as unexpected vaginal bleeding or, in some cases, lighter periods, but others may experience heavy menstrual bleeding. 

There is a small risk of developing a blood clot, such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism, while using Nexplanon. Individuals with a history of serious blood clots or certain medical conditions may have a higher risk.

Some other risk factors of using Nexplanon include high blood pressure and weight gain. A consultation with a healthcare provider is essential to determine if Nexplanon is the right contraceptive choice for individual needs.

Where Can I Get a Contraceptive Implant Fitted or Removed?

The Nexplanon implant is a fantastic contraceptive option for most women. The procedure can be completed in a matter of minutes and lasts for up to 3 years.

The Nexplanon implant can be fitted at any of our Maiden Lane Medical centers located around the Greater New York City Area, Including Downtown, Midtown, Bay Ridge, Upper East Side, as well as our gynecology clinic in Soho.

Schedule an Appointment with Maiden Lane Medical Today!

Nexplanon is an effective and convenient contraceptive method offered by Maiden Lane Medical to prevent pregnancy and provide women with reliable birth control options. With its discreet implant and long-lasting protection, Nexplanon has become popular for individuals seeking a hassle-free and reliable contraceptive solution.

If you are considering a reliable and long-term birth control method, Nexplanon might be the right choice for you. Contact our experienced team at Maiden Lane Medical to discuss your options and find the best birth control method tailored to your needs and lifestyle.