When does Nexplanon start working?

The timing of insertion matters because pregnancy can already be possible during a cycle. Your clinician will ask about your last menstrual bleeding, recent sex, pregnancy possibility, and any contraception you have been using. If the implant is placed later in the cycle or the situation is uncertain, protection may not be immediate.

The rod releases etonogestrel after insertion, but it cannot undo a pregnancy that began before it was placed. Bleeding changes after insertion do not reliably confirm protection or pregnancy status.

Follow the specific backup instructions given at insertion. Use condoms or avoid vaginal sex until the advised protection window has passed when immediate coverage does not apply. Do not rely on the implant for infection prevention.

Record the insertion date and check that the dressing and arm wound are settling. If you vomit, miss tablets used as temporary contraception, or have sex without the advised backup, contact a clinician promptly to discuss your options.

Arrange review if you cannot feel the rod, it seems to be in a different position, or the insertion site becomes increasingly painful, red, swollen, warm, or produces discharge. Seek urgent care for severe abdominal pain, fainting, chest pain, or breathing difficulty.

Take a pregnancy test and seek medical advice if pregnancy symptoms occur or bleeding is unexpectedly absent with other concerns. A positive test while the implant is in place needs assessment.

Ask exactly when your protection starts, how long to use condoms, whether emergency contraception is relevant, and when the implant should be checked or replaced.