Implant (Nexplanon) Insertion/Removal

The contraceptive implant is a matchstick sized rod that is inserted just under the skin, typically on the patient’s arm. The implant lasts about 3-5 years. The effectiveness of the implant tends to be much higher than other forms of contraception due to not relying on daily or monthly consumption or administration. The failure rate for the implant is generally less than 1%.

The implant will be placed by our physician. The area of insertion will first be cleansed to avoid infection, then it will be numbed to offset any discomfort associated with the procedure. After numbing the area, the implant is packaged with an insertion device that looks like a syringe. The physician will insert the syringe under the skin then release the implant. There may be bruising and swelling at the insertion site; however, this discomfort can be easily mitigated with over the counter pain medication.

The implant releases a hormone called progesterone, which will stop ovulation and thicken cervical mucus which impedes the sperm’s ability to reach and fertilize an egg, should ovulation occur. With the implant, menstrual irregularity is possible, momentarily or throughout the entire treatment.

The implant is totally reversible. Once the implant is removed, the patient can begin trying to conceive, ovulation is expected to occur within 3-12 weeks after removal. ACWC offers removal services for patient’s planning to move forward in their family- planning or patients who are seeking other contraception options.