Learn all common, rare, and serious Nexplanon side effects in simple English. USA-friendly guide with symptoms, risks, removal tips, and FAQs.
Nexplanon is a birth control implant placed in the upper arm.
It is one of the most effective contraceptives in the USA, with 99% success rate.
But just like any medicine or device, Nexplanon can cause side effects.
Most side effects are mild and temporary, while serious effects are rare but important to understand.
This guide explains every known Nexplanon side effect in very simple English so anyone can understand.
⭐ What Is Nexplanon?
Nexplanon is a small, matchstick-sized implant placed under the skin of your arm.
It releases a hormone called etonogestrel, which:
- Stops ovulation
- Thickens cervical mucus
- Prevents pregnancy for up to 3 years
It is used widely across the USA because:
- No daily pills
- No maintenance
- Works silently in the body
- Reversible anytime (just remove it)
Most Common Nexplanon Side Effects
According to doctors in the USA, most women experience at least one of these during the first months.
✔️ 1. Irregular Periods (Most Common)
This is the #1 side effect.
You may experience:
- Unpredictable periods
- Longer periods
- Shorter periods
- No periods (amenorrhea)
- Spotting between periods
- Light or heavy bleeding
Most women notice irregular bleeding for 3–6 months after insertion.
✔️ 2. Headaches
Hormonal changes can cause:
- Light headaches
- Pressure on forehead
- Occasional migraines
Usually improves with hydration and rest.
✔️ 3. Mood Changes
Some women report:
- Irritability
- Anxiety
- Mood swings
- Feeling low
- Mild depression
Not everyone experiences this, but it is possible due to hormone levels.
✔️ 4. Breast Tenderness
Your breasts may feel:
- Sore
- Heavy
- Sensitive to touch
- Swollen
This effect commonly appears during the first month.
✔️ 5. Weight Gain
Some women gain weight because:
- Hormonal changes
- Water retention
- Increased appetite
Average weight gain reported: 3–5 pounds (varies person to person).
✔️ 6. Acne or Skin Changes
Some women experience:
- Acne
- Oily skin
- Pimples
- Dark patches
Others may notice clearer skin — it depends on hormonal balance.
✔️ 7. Nausea
Feeling sick or unsettled stomach is common in the first few weeks.
✔️ 8. Pain or Bruising at Insertion Site
After the implant is inserted:
- Mild pain
- Swelling
- Bruises
- Redness
- Itching
This usually goes away within 1–3 days.
Moderate Nexplanon Side Effects (Less Common)
These occur in a smaller group of women.
⚠️ 1. Decreased Sex Drive
Some women experience low libido because of hormonal shifts.
⚠️ 2. Hair Loss or Hair Growth
Hormones can cause:
- Thinning hair
- Hair shedding
- Increased body hair
This is rare but possible.
⚠️ 3. Ovarian Cysts
Nexplanon may cause small cysts that usually:
- Go away on their own
- Do not cause pain
- Are not dangerous
If cysts become large → doctor help is needed.
⚠️ 4. Infection at Implant Site
If the area gets infected, symptoms include:
- Warmth
- Redness
- Pus
- Pain
This needs medical attention.
Serious Nexplanon Side Effects (Rare but Important)
These are rare but you must know them.
❗1. Blood Clots (Very Rare)
Symptoms include:
- Leg swelling
- Chest pain
- Trouble breathing
- Sudden dizziness
Women with smoking habits or obesity have higher risk.
❗2. Severe Depression
If mood symptoms become intense:
- Hopelessness
- Loss of interest
- Severe anxiety
- Suicidal thoughts
Contact a doctor immediately.
❗3. Deep Implant Migration
In extremely rare cases, the implant can:
- Move deeper into the arm
- Become difficult to feel
- Rarely enter a blood vessel
This requires removal by a trained US doctor.
❗4. Allergic Reaction
Some women may be allergic to the implant material.
Symptoms:
- Rash
- Swelling
- Severe itching
- Difficulty breathing
Seek emergency help.
Nexplanon Side Effects
| Side Effect Type | Examples | How Common? |
|---|---|---|
| Common | Irregular periods, headaches, acne, weight gain | Very common |
| Moderate | Low libido, hair changes, ovarian cysts | Less common |
| Serious | Blood clots, depression, implant migration | Rare |
| At insertion site | Pain, bruising, swelling | Very common |
How Long Do Nexplanon Side Effects Last?
| Time After Insertion | What Happens |
|---|---|
| 1–4 weeks | Pain, soreness, headaches, mood changes |
| 1–3 months | Irregular periods, acne changes |
| 3–6 months | Body adjusts to hormones |
| 6+ months | Most women stabilize |
| 1–3 years | Mild long-term changes possible |
Most side effects reduce after 3–6 months.
Does Nexplanon Stop Periods Completely?
Yes — 1 out of 3 women in the USA stop having periods after using Nexplanon.
This is normal and not harmful.
Who Should NOT Use Nexplanon? (USA Guidelines)
Avoid Nexplanon if you have:
- Breast cancer (past or present)
- Liver disease
- Unexplained bleeding
- History of blood clots
- Allergy to implant materials
Always consult a doctor before using it.
Nexplanon Removal Side Effects
After removing the implant, you may notice:
- Mild swelling
- Light bleeding
- Bruising
- Soreness
- Headache
- Periods returning in 1–3 months
Fertility returns very quickly after removal.
Does Nexplanon Cause Infertility?
❌ No. Nexplanon does NOT cause infertility.
Women can become pregnant soon after removal — sometimes within 1 week.
Tips to Reduce Nexplanon Side Effects
✔️ Drink more water
✔️ Manage stress
✔️ Use pain relievers (if doctor approves)
✔️ Keep insertion site clean
✔️ Track your periods
✔️ Eat balanced meals
✔️ Exercise regularly
✔️ Avoid smoking
✔️ Get regular check-ups
When to Call a Doctor?
Seek medical help if you notice:
- Severe pain
- Heavy bleeding
- High fever
- Chest pain
- Trouble breathing
- Strong depression
- Implant feels missing
- Severe swelling
- Allergic reaction
- Loss of feeling in arm
These symptoms need urgent care.
Nexplanon vs Other Birth Control Methods
| Method | Duration | Side Effects | Who Should Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nexplanon | 3 years | Irregular periods | Busy women who prefer long-term care |
| IUD | 3–10 years | Cramps, spotting | Women who want hormone-free or hormonal options |
| Pills | Daily | Nausea, headache | Women comfortable with daily routine |
| Patch | Weekly | Skin irritation | Avoid swallowing pills |
| Shot (Depo) | 3 months | Weight gain | Women who want quarterly visits |
FAQs About Nexplanon Side Effects
1. Does Nexplanon cause hair loss?
Yes, in rare cases. Some women experience hair thinning.
2. Do Nexplanon side effects go away?
Most side effects improve after 3–6 months.
3. Can Nexplanon cause depression?
It may cause mood changes in some women. Severe depression is rare.
4. Will Nexplanon make me gain weight?
Some women gain mild weight due to hormone changes.
5. Can Nexplanon stop my period completely?
Yes, for about 30% of women.
6. How soon does fertility return after removal?
Very fast — sometimes within 1 week.
Final Thoughts
Nexplanon is a powerful, long-lasting, and effective birth control option used by millions of women in the USA.
Most side effects are mild and temporary, especially during the first months.
Serious side effects are rare, but you should always stay aware and contact your doctor if something feels wrong.
With the right care, Nexplanon can be a safe and convenient contraceptive method for many women.
Medical Disclaimer
This article is for educational purposes only.
It does not replace medical advice.
Always consult a licensed healthcare professional in the USA before using any birth control method.
