When is Nexplanon effective?

A clinician must place the rod under the skin of the upper arm and confirm its position. Insertion timing determines whether protection is immediate or whether temporary backup contraception is needed. The implant does not protect against sexually transmitted infections.

Some medicines and herbal products can increase hormone breakdown and reduce contraceptive protection. Irregular bleeding does not prove that Nexplanon has failed, and having no bleeding does not prove pregnancy is absent.

Tell every prescriber that you use Nexplanon and ask about interactions before starting a medicine or supplement. Follow the backup instructions provided after insertion. Keep your insertion date, planned replacement date, and clinic details accessible.

If the rod cannot be felt, use condoms and arrange a position check. If you have unprotected sex during a period when protection may be reduced, seek prompt advice about pregnancy prevention and testing.

Contact a clinician after a positive pregnancy test, unexplained pregnancy symptoms, a missing or displaced-feeling rod, or use of a medicine known to interact with hormonal contraception. Do not wait for a routine appointment if you have severe abdominal pain or faintness.

Seek urgent care for chest pain, difficulty breathing, sudden weakness, or a rapidly worsening arm problem. These symptoms need assessment for reasons beyond contraceptive effectiveness.

Ask whether the insertion timing required backup, which medicines interact with etonogestrel, how to confirm the rod’s position, and what to do if you miss a replacement appointment.