Woman’s upper arm with small adhesive bandage covering implant site after contraceptive implant procedure. Medical professional wearing blue gloves nearby with gauze and metal tray. Comparison of...
The inner upper arm is numbed with local anesthesia, a tiny incision is made, and the matchstick-size implant goes in within minutes. Removal is just as quick.
Both implants release etonogestrel, which thickens cervical mucus, stops ovulation and thins the uterine lining - protecting against pregnancy for up to three years.
The implants are nearly identical; the main difference is the applicator - Nexplanon comes preloaded. Failure rates are tiny and almost the same (about 0.05% vs 0.08%).
Irregular bleeding, headaches, acne, breast tenderness, and mood or weight changes are common, especially at first. Serious problems like blood clots are rare - review your health history with your provider.
The Center for Women's Health and Wellness in Miami can talk through your options and place or remove an implant in a short office visit.