Irregular periods on Nexplanon: what to know

Nexplanon releases a progestogen that prevents ovulation and changes the lining of the womb. As a result, some people have spotting, bleeding at unpredictable times, longer episodes, lighter bleeding, or no bleeding. This pattern can change after insertion and may not follow a predictable calendar. The implant does not explain every symptom: pregnancy, infection, thyroid problems, and conditions such as Polycystic Ovary Syndrome may also cause irregular bleeding.

Track bleeding, pain, discharge, fever, medicines, and the date the implant was inserted. Check that the implant remains in place as instructed and contact the prescribing clinic if you cannot feel it or have concerns about insertion. A clinician can check for pregnancy or other causes and discuss treatment for troublesome bleeding. Do not remove the implant or start medicines on your own. The Combined Pill may be considered for some people after a safety review; it is not suitable for everyone.

Seek urgent help for severe or one-sided pelvic pain, fainting, rapidly heavy bleeding, fever with pelvic pain, or possible pregnancy with pain or bleeding. Arrange a review if bleeding is persistent, increasingly heavy, painful, or accompanied by unusual discharge. If the implant is not where expected, use advice from the clinic about contraception while it is checked. Irregular bleeding on Nexplanon does not by itself indicate Polycystic Ovary Syndrome or another condition.

Ask whether your pattern fits the implant, whether pregnancy or infection testing is needed, which short-term treatments are safe with your medical history, and when removal or a different contraceptive should be considered.