TL;DR: Yes, it is possible to get pregnant while using Nexplanon, but it’s very unlikely. Over the course of one year, fewer than 1 out of 100 people using the implant will become pregnant when it’s inserted and used correctly. The risk increases slightly if the implant is left in beyond its approved 3‑year timeframe, if it was incorrectly placed, or if you’re taking certain medications that interact with its effectiveness. DoctorMedica+1
If pregnancy does occur with Nexplanon in place, there’s a somewhat higher chance of an ectopic (outside the womb) pregnancy—so it’s important to contact your doctor right away. nexplanon.com+1
If you’re in the Coral Springs area and are interested in birth control implants or have any questions about birth control in general, call Lona Sasser Obstetrics & Gynecology at 954‑340‑1050 or book an appointment online.
Can you get pregnant on Nexplanon? We walk you through what you need to know about birth control implants, how they work and whether they are effective
Several forms of contraception are currently available for women in the United States. If you are considering a birth control implant to avoid unwanted pregnancy, you may have questions like, “can you get pregnant on Nexplanon?” We will walk you through what you need to know about implantable contraception.
Hormonal birth control today can be oral, injectable, and transdermal. You know ablout the pill, which you take orally every day. Then there are medications that are placed in the body that slowly release certain hormones and can work for a long time without you having to think about it. Devices like vaginal rings, hormonal intrauterine devices (IUDs), and implantable contraceptives like Nexplanon are among these. What is it, how does it work and is it really effective?
Dr. Lona Sasser and Dr. Mary Squire-De Leon are highly skilled gynecologists in Coral Springs, Florida, who offer birth control services and an array of compassionate care.
Schedule your appointment today at 954-340-1050 or book online
What is Nexplanon?
A birth control implant that goes in your arm. A health provider inserts this thin, flexible, plastic implant into the underside of your non-dominant upper arm. It’s about the size of a matchstick, and will work for 3 years, at which point it must be removed and, if you want to continue using it, replaced.
It works by releasing progestin, a synthetic hormone that mimics progesterone. Progestin stops the ovaries from releasing an egg. It also thickens cervical mucus which may prevent sperm from passing into the uterus, and alters the uterine lining to prevent implantation of a fertilized egg. Nexplanon or other such medications will not protect you from HIV or any Sexually Transmitted Infections or Diseases (STIs and STDs).
Can you get pregnant on Nexplanon?
Implantable contraception is known to be a very effective method of birth control. Over the course of 1 year, fewer than 1 out of 100 people using the implant will have an accidental pregnancy. This is about the same chance of pregnancy as you have using the pill.
The chances of getting pregnant increase if someone waits longer than 3 years to replace the tube. The efficacy of the implant also depends on your personal health history and what other medications you may be taking. Your healthcare provider should counsel you on whether the implant is a good fit for you or if there are any risks or contraindications that you should consider.
Getting a birth control implant : what to expect
Ask your doctor about the best time to schedule your appointment to have the rod placed. The implant is usually inserted between the first and fifth day of your menstrual period, even if you are still bleeding. You will probably be given a pregnancy test to make sure you are not pregnant before it can be inserted. Tell your doctor if you think you might be pregnant or even if you missed a period.
Be sure you can feel the rod underneath your skin with your fingertips. If at any time you cannot feel it, or it seems bent or broken, tell your doctor right away.
What if I get pregnant on Nexplanon?
If you are in the extremely rare situation where you think you’ve gotten pregnant while using the birth control implant, call your doctor immediately to have the implant removed and talk about your options. According to this article from “Pharmacy and Therapeutics,” animal studies show no evidence of harm to the fetus.
At our practice, we regularly consult with our patients on the many available choices for birth control, and can prescribe the birth control method of their choice.
Book an appointment to discuss birth control, risks and benefits, and more with a compassionate gynecologist at Lona Sasser Obstetrics and Gynecology!
FAQ
Q: How does Nexplanon prevent pregnancy?
A: The implant is a small rod placed under the skin of your upper arm. It releases a progestin hormone (etonogestrel) which:
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Prevents the ovaries from releasing an egg each month. thelowdown.com+1
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Thickens the cervical mucus, making it harder for sperm to reach an egg.
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Alters the lining of the uterus, reducing the chance of implantation if fertilization does occur.
Q: What’s the actual chance of getting pregnant with Nexplanon?
A: According to the blog post from Lona Sasser Obstetrics & Gynecology, over one year, fewer than 1 out of‑100 users experience pregnancy when the implant is properly inserted and used. Lona Sasser, MD
Q: Are there factors that increase the risk of pregnancy while using Nexplanon?
A: Yes. Some risk‑factors include:
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Leaving the implant in place beyond its approved 3‑year lifespan (its effectiveness diminishes with time). Lona Sasser, MD+1
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Improper insertion or migration of the implant (if you can’t feel it where it was inserted, contact your provider). nexplanon.com+1
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Taking certain medications or herbal supplements (e.g., some anticonvulsants, rifampicin, St. John’s Wort) that reduce the hormone levels and may reduce effectiveness.
Q: What should I do if I think I’m pregnant while using Nexplanon?
A: Contact your healthcare provider right away. They will probably recommend a pregnancy test and evaluation to rule out ectopic pregnancy (which is slightly more likely if a contraceptive fails). Also discuss removal of the implant, because continued use during pregnancy is not recommended. Lona Sasser, MD+1
Q: If I want to become pregnant, what happens after Nexplanon removal?
A: Fertility typically returns quickly once the implant is removed. Some people start ovulating and can conceive within weeks, though it may take a few months for everyone’s cycle to return to “normal.” Natural Cycles+1
Q: Does Nexplanon protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs)?
A: No — just like other hormonal birth control methods, Nexplanon does not provide protection against STIs. Using condoms is still important for STI protection.
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