Contraceptive Implant
Long-acting, reversible birth control that provides highly effective pregnancy prevention without having to remember a daily pill.
Simple.
Effective.
Reversible.
A small implant placed beneath the skin of the upper arm releases a progestin hormone to help prevent pregnancy.
What is a contraceptive implant?
A contraceptive implant is a small, flexible device placed just beneath the skin of the upper arm. It releases a low, steady amount of the progestin hormone etonogestrel to help prevent pregnancy.
In the United States, Nexplanon is the available etonogestrel contraceptive implant. It is designed to provide long-acting contraception and can be removed when pregnancy is desired or when a different method of birth control is preferred.
Because the implant does not require taking a pill every day, it can be a convenient option for women who want highly effective, low-maintenance contraception.
Contraceptive implant benefits
The implant is one of several long-acting reversible contraceptive options available to women.
Highly effective
The contraceptive implant is among the most effective reversible methods of preventing pregnancy.
Low maintenance
Once placed, you do not need to remember a daily pill or take action every time you have intercourse.
Hormone-only option
The implant releases a progestin hormone and does not contain estrogen.
Reversible
The implant can be removed by a healthcare professional when you decide to discontinue the method.
How does the contraceptive implant prevent pregnancy?
The implant works primarily by preventing ovulation and by changing cervical mucus, making it more difficult for sperm to reach an egg.
Releases progestin
The implant continuously releases etonogestrel, a progestin hormone.
Helps prevent ovulation
The hormone primarily works by preventing the release of an egg from the ovary.
Thickens cervical mucus
The implant also thickens cervical mucus, creating another barrier to sperm.
Implant placement is designed to be simple
A healthcare professional places the implant just beneath the skin on the inner side of the upper arm. The procedure uses a specially designed applicator.
Your provider will discuss the timing of placement, pregnancy status, medications, health history and other factors that may affect whether the implant is appropriate for you.
Before, during and after insertion
Your provider reviews your health history and contraceptive goals.
The implant is inserted beneath the skin of the upper arm.
Your provider explains how to care for the insertion site and what symptoms to watch for.
Follow-up is available if you have questions or concerns about bleeding, the insertion site or the contraceptive method.
How can the implant affect your period?
Changes in menstrual bleeding are common with the contraceptive implant and can vary significantly from person to person.
Irregular bleeding
Some women experience irregular or unpredictable bleeding after getting the implant.
Spotting
Light spotting or changes in the timing of bleeding may occur.
Different patterns
Some women have fewer bleeding days, while others may experience more frequent or prolonged bleeding.
Talk with your healthcare provider. Bleeding changes are one of the most common reasons women have questions about the implant, and your provider can help determine whether evaluation or treatment is appropriate.
Possible side effects of the contraceptive implant
Every contraceptive method has potential benefits and risks. Your provider can help you decide whether an implant is appropriate based on your individual health history.
Changes in menstrual bleeding
Irregular bleeding and spotting can occur.
Insertion-site symptoms
Temporary pain, bruising, swelling or discomfort can occur around the insertion area.
Other reported symptoms
Some women report headaches, acne, breast tenderness or mood changes.
Who may consider a contraceptive implant?
The best birth control method depends on your health, preferences, reproductive plans and comfort with the method.
Want long-acting contraception
The implant can be useful for women who prefer a method that does not require daily attention.
Prefer a reversible method
The implant is designed as a reversible contraceptive option.
Want a progestin-only option
The implant contains progestin rather than estrogen.
Want highly effective contraception
The implant is among the most effective reversible contraceptive methods.
Some medical conditions and medications matter
Certain medical conditions and medications can affect whether a hormonal contraceptive implant is appropriate. Your healthcare provider should review your medical history and current medications before placement.
Some medications or herbal products that increase the activity of certain liver enzymes may reduce the effectiveness of hormonal contraceptives, including implants.
Discuss your options with our team →Is the implant right for you?
There is no single best contraceptive method for every woman. Comparing your options can help you choose a method that fits your lifestyle and reproductive goals.
Contraceptive Implant
Long-acting, reversible, progestin-only contraception placed beneath the skin of the upper arm.
Birth-Control Pills
Oral contraception taken on a regular schedule. Depending on the formulation, pills may contain estrogen and progestin or progestin alone.
IUD
A small device placed inside the uterus. Depending on the type, an IUD may release hormones or use copper.
Depo-Provera
A progestin contraceptive injection administered on a recurring schedule.
Contraceptive implant FAQ
Have questions about Nexplanon, implant placement, effectiveness or side effects? Here are answers to common questions.
What is a contraceptive implant? +
A contraceptive implant is a small flexible device placed beneath the skin of the upper arm that releases the progestin hormone etonogestrel to help prevent pregnancy.
What is Nexplanon? +
Nexplanon is the etonogestrel contraceptive implant available in the United States. It is inserted beneath the skin of the upper arm by a trained healthcare professional.
How effective is the contraceptive implant? +
The contraceptive implant is one of the most effective reversible methods of pregnancy prevention. The effectiveness can be affected by certain medications and individual circumstances, so your provider should review your medical history and medications.
How long does the contraceptive implant last? +
The FDA prescribing information for Nexplanon states that the implant must be removed no later than the end of the third year. Always follow the current product labeling and your healthcare provider's advice.
Where is the implant inserted? +
Nexplanon is placed just beneath the skin on the inner side of the non-dominant upper arm.
Does the implant contain estrogen? +
No. Nexplanon is a progestin-only contraceptive implant and releases etonogestrel.
Will the implant change my period? +
Menstrual bleeding patterns can change with the implant. Some women experience spotting, irregular bleeding, fewer bleeding days or other changes.
Can the implant be removed? +
Yes. The implant can be removed by a healthcare professional. If you want to discontinue the method, discuss removal and alternative contraception with your provider.
Can I become pregnant after removing the implant? +
Fertility can return after the implant is removed. If you do not want to become pregnant after removal, talk with your provider about starting another contraceptive method.
Does the implant protect against sexually transmitted infections? +
No. The contraceptive implant does not protect against sexually transmitted infections. Condoms can provide protection against many STIs when used correctly and consistently.
Can the implant be used by teenagers? +
Contraceptive implants can be appropriate for many adolescents and adults. A healthcare professional should review the individual's health history and contraceptive needs.
Can women with certain medical conditions use the implant? +
Eligibility depends on the specific medical condition and circumstances. The CDC publishes medical eligibility recommendations that healthcare professionals use when evaluating contraceptive options.
Find the contraceptive option that fits your life.
Our team can help you compare the implant with other birth control options and choose an approach based on your health, preferences and reproductive goals.
Birth control care in Riverside and the Inland Empire
Magnolia Women Medical Center provides personalized obstetric and gynecologic care for women throughout Riverside, Moreno Valley, Corona and surrounding Inland Empire communities.