What is Birth Control Implant?
A contraceptive implant is an implantable medical device used for the purpose of birth control.
The implant may depend on the timed release of hormones to hinder ovulation or sperm development, the ability of copper to act as a natural spermicide within the uterus, or it may work using a non-hormonal, physical blocking mechanism.
As with other contraceptives, a contraceptive implant is designed to prevent pregnancy, but it does not protect against sexually transmitted infections.
Some people get side effects that bother them after getting their implant, but these usually go away after a few months. Rarely, side effects can be serious.
Negative Effects of Birth Control Implant
Some people have side effects after getting Nexplanon, but many adjust to the implant with few or no problems at all.
Negative side effects usually go away after a few months, once your body gets used to your implant. You can use our birth control app to keep track of the side effects you are experiencing.
The most common side effect is irregular bleeding (aka spotting), especially in the first 6-12 months. Sometimes the implant causes long-term spotting, or periods get longer and heavier.
But for most people, the implant makes their periods way lighter — 1 in 3 people with the implant stop getting their periods at all after a year.
It’s totally safe to not get a period while you’re on Nexplanon. And you don’t need to worry about being pregnant even if you don’t get a period, because the implant is really, really effective birth control. (You can always take a pregnancy test if you want to be sure.)
Other possible side effects that aren’t as common include:
- Headaches
- Breast pain
- Nausea
- Weight gain
- Ovarian cysts
- Pain or bruising where the implant was inserted
- An infection where the implant was inserted