How long is Nexplanon effective for?

# Understanding Nexplanon: Duration and Effectiveness 🌟 ## What is Nexplanon? Nexplanon is a small, flexible rod about the size of a matchstick that is inserted under the skin of your upper arm. It's a popular form of long-term birth control that releases etonogestrel, a synthetic progestin, into your bloodstream to prevent pregnancy. ### How it Works The implant prevents pregnancy through multiple mechanisms: - **Inhibiting ovulation**: It stops the ovaries from releasing eggs - **Thickening cervical mucus**: This makes it difficult for sperm to enter the uterus - **Thinning the uterine lining**: This reduces the likelihood of a fertilized egg implanting ## Duration of Effectiveness ⏳ While Nexplanon is FDA-approved for **3 years** of use, recent studies suggest it may be effective for up to **5 years**. During the approved period, it maintains an effectiveness rate of over 99%, making it one of the most reliable forms of birth control available. ### Effectiveness Timeline | Time Period | Effectiveness Rate | |-------------|-------------------| | Years 1-3 | >99% | | Years 4-5* | ~95% | *Based on emerging research, not yet FDA-approved ## Factors Influencing Effectiveness Several factors can affect how long Nexplanon remains effective: * **Body Weight**: People weighing over 130% of ideal body weight may need earlier replacement * **Medication Interactions**: Certain drugs, such as those used for epilepsy or tuberculosis, can reduce effectiveness * **Medical Conditions**: Some conditions may impact hormone absorption ## Benefits of Nexplanon 1. Long-term protection without daily maintenance 2. Quick return to fertility after removal 3. Discreet and doesn't interfere with sexual activity 4. Over 99% effective during approved use period 5. Reversible at any time > **Note**: Weight, medications, and other factors may affect Nexplanon's effectiveness. Always discuss these with your healthcare provider. ## Removal and Replacement When approaching the end of the effectiveness period, you have two options: * Have the implant removed * Have it removed and replaced with a new one during the same procedure The removal process is straightforward and typically takes only a few minutes. A healthcare provider will numb the area, make a small incision, and remove the implant. ## Getting the Most from Your Implant 💪 To ensure optimal protection: 1. Track your insertion date 2. Attend regular check-ups 3. Monitor any changes in your health 4. Discuss concerns with your healthcare provider 5. Plan ahead for removal/replacement For more information, visit: - [Planned Parenthood's page on Nexplanon](https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/birth-control/birth-control-implant-nexplanon) - [CDC's page on contraception](https://www.cdc.gov/contraception/index.html) - [Mayo Clinic website](https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/contraceptive-implant/about/pac-20393619)

How long is Nexplanon effective for?

Related articles