Side effects of an expired Implanon implant

Implanon is an older form of contraceptive implant that releases etonogestrel from a rod under the skin. Reaching its replacement date does not usually create a distinct illness, but hormone release may no longer be sufficient for reliable pregnancy prevention. Bleeding may change, or your periods may return. Arm soreness, redness, a lump, or a change in the rod's position may instead point to a local problem that needs examination. Expiry is determined by the insertion date and product guidance, not by symptoms alone.

Contact a contraception or women’s health service to confirm the insertion date and arrange removal or replacement. Use condoms or another advised method until a clinician confirms effective contraception. Do not cut, press, or try to remove the rod at home. If you had sex without reliable contraception after the replacement date, ask promptly about pregnancy testing and emergency contraception. Bring any implant record to the appointment.

Seek prompt help for a positive pregnancy test with one-sided abdominal pain, shoulder-tip pain, dizziness, or fainting. Arrange urgent assessment for heavy bleeding with weakness, severe arm pain, spreading redness, pus, fever, numbness, or a rod that cannot be felt. These symptoms require examination rather than waiting for routine replacement.

Ask whether the rod is still in the correct position, whether it should be removed or replaced, and which contraception protects you meanwhile. Discuss pregnancy testing, bleeding changes, and whether a Hormonal Coil is an appropriate alternative.