What should you know about nexplanon and ectopic pregnancy?

Pelvic pain or vaginal bleeding can have several causes and does not by itself diagnose an ectopic pregnancy. A positive pregnancy test, one-sided pelvic pain, shoulder-tip pain, faintness or worsening bleeding needs clinical review. Assessment may include pregnancy testing, examination and a Transvaginal Ultrasound; timing can affect what is visible.

Take a pregnancy test if your bleeding pattern changes in a way that concerns you, or if pregnancy symptoms develop. Contact a clinician promptly with a positive result, even if the implant is still in place. Tell them about pain location, bleeding, the insertion date and any history such as Pelvic Inflammatory Disease. Do not remove the implant yourself.

Go to emergency care for severe or rapidly worsening pelvic pain, fainting, marked dizziness, shoulder-tip pain, heavy bleeding or collapse. These are red flags for internal bleeding and require immediate assessment. If an ectopic pregnancy is diagnosed, treatment may involve medicine or surgery such as Salpingectomy, depending on findings.

Ask whether you need repeat pregnancy testing or ultrasound, where the pregnancy is located, whether the implant should be removed, and which symptoms mean you should return immediately.