There are lots of different methods of birth control to choose from. Depending on your body and your life, you have to decide which method is best for you. Your doctor or a clinician at a clinic can help you decide. Nexplanon is a good option for some women, including some teens. Nexplanon does not protect you from STDs but can be used together with the condom which does help to protect you from STDs.
What is Nexplanon?
The Birth Control Implant (Nexplanon) is a very small plastic device that is made with progestin. It works like birth control pills to prevent pregnancy. The implant is inserted in the inner part of the upper arm, where it can stay in place for up to 3 years. The insertion only takes a couple of minutes and doesn’t hurt. It can be done at a clinic near you.
Some Advantages:
- The implant is easy to use. You don’t have to remember to take a pill every day.
- The implant is very good at preventing pregnancy.
- The implant does not cause serious health problems in most women.
- The implant can be used by women who cannot take pregnancy prevention methods that have estrogen in them.
Some Possible Disadvantages:
- The implant does not protect against STDs
- Some women experience side effects like irregular bleeding, weight gain or mood changes. These usually go away in a few months but if they bother you or don’t go away, it can be easily removed and you can use a different method of birth control.
- Some women have complications in the arm from the insertion of the implant.
- Very few women experience serious health problems