NEXPLANON® is a contraceptive implant consisting of a small flexible, latex-free plastic stick, 4 cm long and 2 mm in diameter. It is inserted under the skin of the inner side of the arm, by a doctor or a health professional who has received the necessary training. The insertion is done using an applicator specially designed for this purpose. The skin is previously anesthetized to minimize discomfort. The hormone etonogestrel (a progestin) it contains will be released in relatively stable daily doses and absorbed into the bloodstream. It will then blocks ovulation and thicken the mucus in the cervix, preventing conception.
NEXPLANON® is 99.4% effective. It can be left in place for 3 years and to have it removed it is also necessary to consult a health professional who has taken the training.
About 20% of women with the implant will stop menstruating completely (compared to 50% for the MIRENA IUD). In 80% of women there will be menstrual changes in the form of unpredictable and sometimes persistent spotting. This is probably the most common side effect that you will need to accept. This method does not contain estrogen, so it can be used by the majority of women, even smokers 35 years and older and those suffering from migraines.