Effects of Nexplanon

Short answer
Nexplanon releases a progestogen that can change bleeding patterns and may cause headaches, breast tenderness, acne or mood changes in some people.
This answers one question. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace an assessment by a licensed doctor.
At a glance
- Most noticeable change
- Bleeding may become unpredictable or stop
- Protection gap
- The implant does not prevent sexually transmitted infections
Understanding the implant’s effects
Irregular spotting, longer bleeding, shorter bleeding or no periods can occur with the implant. Bleeding changes are common reasons for wanting advice, but they do not by themselves show that the implant has moved or stopped working. Some users notice nausea, abdominal discomfort, reduced libido, hair changes or weight change. The small rod sits under the skin of the upper arm and should remain easy to feel. It does not protect against sexually transmitted infections, and some medicines or herbal products can reduce contraceptive protection.
What to do about troublesome effects
Record bleeding days, pain, headaches and mood changes, then discuss patterns with a clinician. They can check the insertion site, review medicines and consider treatments for troublesome bleeding or another contraceptive option. Do not try to remove the rod yourself. If you want it removed, a trained clinician can take it out and discuss pregnancy planning or alternatives, including a hormonal coil. Use condoms for infection protection and ask for advice if you think another medicine may interfere.
When to seek care
Seek urgent help for severe chest pain, sudden breathlessness, coughing blood, one-sided leg swelling, sudden severe headache, weakness or vision loss. Arrange prompt review if the rod cannot be felt, the arm becomes increasingly red or swollen, there is pus, severe pain, heavy bleeding, or you have a positive pregnancy test with abdominal pain or dizziness.
Questions for your doctor
Are my bleeding changes within the expected range? Could any medicine or supplement affect the implant? What can relieve these effects? Can you confirm the rod is in place, and what alternatives would suit me if I want it removed?
Find care
General Clinics & Polyclinics in Abu Dhabi
That answer is general. If you want it applied to your own case, these are licensed general clinics & polyclinics listed in Abu Dhabi.
27 Ar Ruwwad St - Shakhbout City - MSH4 - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates
Accepts: Daman, Thiqa, Cigna, MetLife +20 more
Al Ruwais, Al Dhafrah
Accepts: Daman, Thiqa, AXA, Cigna +16 more
Al Bahyah - Al Bahyah Old - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates
Accepts: Daman, Thiqa, Cigna, Allianz Care +18 more
Abu Dhabi
Accepts: Daman, Thiqa, AXA, Cigna +27 more
Ordered by verification status and how complete each clinic's public record is, then alphabetically. This is a directory listing, not a ranking — Zavis does not rate or recommend providers.
A factual listing drawn from the DHA, DOH and MOHAP licence registers. It is not a referral, an endorsement, or advice that any of these providers is right for you.
Questions people ask
Does Nexplanon always stop periods?
No. Some people have no periods, while others have spotting or irregular, longer or more frequent bleeding.
Can Nexplanon be removed?
Yes. A trained clinician can remove it and discuss another contraceptive method if wanted.
Related
Related reading
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Medical disclaimer. This page is general health information, not medical advice, and it cannot diagnose you. Always consult a licensed healthcare provider about your own symptoms and treatment. In an emergency in the UAE, call 998 for an ambulance.