What to know if Nexplanon feels broken in your arm

Nexplanon is a small rod placed under the skin of the upper arm. It can sometimes feel different after an impact, pressure, or movement of the surrounding tissue. A change in shape, a sharp edge, a missing section, or difficulty feeling the rod does not establish what has happened; examination is needed. A rod that has moved, fractured, or is difficult to locate may require imaging or a specialist assessment before removal.

Do not rely on the implant alone for pregnancy prevention while its position or condition is uncertain. A clinician can check whether the implant is present, where it lies, and whether another contraceptive method is needed. Tell them when you first noticed the change, whether the arm was injured, and whether you have had sex without a barrier since then.

Arrange an appointment with the clinician or service that inserted the implant, or another contraception service that can assess implants. Keep the area clean and avoid pressing, massaging, or trying to straighten the rod. Until you receive clear advice, use condoms or avoid vaginal sex; ask promptly about emergency contraception if unprotected sex may have occurred.

Bring the insertion date and any implant card or medical record if available. Mention medicines or supplements, recent arm procedures, numbness, weakness, bruising, or skin changes. If removal is recommended, ask how the clinician will locate the rod and what contraception will cover the gap before a replacement or alternative is effective.

Seek urgent medical help for severe or rapidly worsening arm pain, marked swelling, spreading redness, pus, fever, heavy bleeding, or an open wound over the implant. Get urgent assessment for new hand weakness, numbness, loss of movement, or a hand that becomes unusually pale, blue, or cold. These symptoms can signal infection, bleeding, or pressure on nearby structures and need prompt examination.

If you have a positive pregnancy test while the implant is in place, contact a clinician promptly. Seek emergency help for severe one-sided lower abdominal pain, fainting, or shoulder-tip pain, especially with vaginal bleeding.

Ask: Can you feel and locate the whole rod? Does it need imaging or specialist removal? Should I use backup contraception, and for how long? Could my medicines affect contraception? If this implant is removed, when can I start another method, such as an etonogestrel implant rod or a hormonal coil?