Pregnant on Nexplanon: symptoms and what to do

Nexplanon can change bleeding patterns and may cause symptoms that overlap with early pregnancy, so symptoms alone cannot confirm the cause. A test is more useful than trying to interpret spotting or a change in your usual pattern. Pregnancy risk can rise if the implant is no longer in place, has not been inserted correctly, its effectiveness period has passed, or certain medicines affect it.

If a test is positive, contact a clinician promptly and tell them you have an implant. Pregnancy alongside an implant needs assessment to confirm where the pregnancy is located and to discuss the implant safely.

Take a home pregnancy test according to its instructions. If it is negative but symptoms continue or your bleeding remains unusual, repeat testing when advised by a clinician. Check that you can feel the implant in your upper arm and note any medicines or supplements you take.

Arrange a medical review for a positive test, persistent symptoms, or concern that the implant has moved. A clinician may discuss removal and other contraception options, including a [Hormonal Coil](/treatments/contraception-and-family-planning/hormonal-coil/). The implant rod itself is described in the [Etonogestrel Implant Rod](/materials/etonogestrel-implant/).

Seek urgent care for severe or one-sided lower abdominal pain, shoulder-tip pain, fainting, marked dizziness, or heavy bleeding, especially after a positive pregnancy test. These symptoms can signal a complication that needs prompt assessment.

Ask whether your test timing is reliable, whether medicines could affect Nexplanon, how the implant will be checked, and which contraception is suitable while your symptoms are being assessed.