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What Is Nexplanon?

Nexplanon is a prescription hormonal contraceptive implant containing 68 mg of etonogestrel, a progestin. It is a small, flexible rod inserted beneath the skin of the upper arm by a trained healthcare professional. Nexplanon provides long-acting, reversible pregnancy prevention for up to five years under its updated U.S. approval. It does not contain estrogen and does not protect against HIV or other sexually transmitted infections.

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What Is Nexplanon?

Nexplanon is a prescription hormonal contraceptive implant containing 68 mg of etonogestrel, a progestin. It is a small, flexible rod inserted beneath the skin of the upper arm by a trained healthcare professional. Nexplanon provides long-acting, reversible pregnancy prevention for up to five years under its updated U.S. approval. It does not contain estrogen and does not protect against HIV or other sexually transmitted infections.

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How Does Nexplanon Prevent Pregnancy?

Nexplanon continuously releases etonogestrel into the bloodstream. Its primary contraceptive action is suppressing ovulation, preventing the release of an egg from the ovary. It also thickens cervical mucus, making it more difficult for sperm to enter the uterus, and changes the uterine lining. These mechanisms work together to prevent pregnancy without requiring daily medication. Contraceptive effectiveness can decrease when certain enzyme-inducing medications are taken concurrently.

Who Can Use Nexplanon?

Nexplanon is intended for pregnancy prevention in women of reproductive potential. It can be an option for people who prefer long-acting contraception without a daily pill. Healthcare professionals review medical history before insertion. Nexplanon should not be used by patients with current or previous blood clots, certain liver conditions, unexplained abnormal uterine bleeding, or current or previous breast cancer. Individual suitability depends on medical history and potential medication interactions.

How Is Nexplanon Inserted and Removed?

A trained healthcare professional inserts one Nexplanon implant just beneath the skin on the inner side of the nondominant upper arm. Local anesthetic is used during the procedure. The implant can remain in place for up to five years and must be removed by the end of the fifth year. It can be removed earlier when desired or medically indicated. The timing of insertion determines whether temporary backup contraception is needed. Insertion and removal must be performed by appropriately trained clinicians.

What Are the Side Effects and Warnings of Nexplanon?

Changes in menstrual bleeding are among the most common effects of Nexplanon, including irregular bleeding, prolonged bleeding, or absent periods. Other possible effects include headache, acne, weight changes, and mood changes. Insertion and removal complications can include pain, infection, difficult removal, or migration of the implant. Serious concerns include blood clots and ectopic pregnancy if contraceptive failure occurs. Nexplanon can interact with certain seizure medications and other enzyme-inducing drugs.

Common Questions About Nexplanon

How long does Nexplanon last?

Nexplanon is approved in the United States to prevent pregnancy for up to five years. It must be removed by the end of the fifth year and can be replaced if continued contraception is desired.

Does Nexplanon stop menstrual periods?

Nexplanon can cause lighter, irregular, or absent periods. Some users experience more frequent or prolonged bleeding instead, and patterns differ between individuals.

Can Nexplanon be removed before five years?

Yes. A trained healthcare professional can remove Nexplanon before the five-year limit. Fertility can return rapidly after removal.

Does Nexplanon protect against sexually transmitted infections?

No. Nexplanon prevents pregnancy but does not protect against HIV or other sexually transmitted infections. Condoms can help reduce infection risk.

References

DailyMed - NEXPLANON (etonogestrel) implant. https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=487f8a62-e142-457c-97cc-2e398fde7594. Date Accessed October 19, 2026.

Etonogestrel. Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed). https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK501512/. Date Accessed October 19, 2026.

Etonogestrel. PubChem. https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/etonogestrel. Date Accessed October 19, 2026.

Etonogestrel Implant. MedlinePlus. https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a625057.html. Date Accessed October 19, 2026.

Organon Announces US Food and Drug Administration Approval of Supplemental New Drug Application Extending Duration of Use of NEXPLANON (etonogestrel implant) 68 mg Radiopaque. Organon. https://www.organon.com/news/organon-announces-us-food-and-drug-administration-approval-of-supplemental-new-drug-application-extending-duration-of-use-of-nexplanon-etonogestrel-implant-68-mg-radiopaque/. Date Accessed October 19, 2026.