Contraceptive implants have become a go-to long-term birth control option for many women. These slim devices, about the size and shape of a matchstick, are introduced under the skin of the upper arm, where they steadily release the hormone progestin. This prevents pregnancy for 3-5 years, depending on the implant type, without having to remember daily pills or schedule regular injections.
This article explores the extended duration of today’s contraceptive implants. The implant’s long-lasting effectiveness is an optimal fit for busy Raleigh women focused on life’s many demands outside of starting a family.
Exceptional Efficacy Sets Implants Apart
Contraceptive implants, along with intrauterine devices, are considered some of the most effective forms of reversible birth control on the market. The failure rate is less than 1%, meaning fewer than 1 out of 100 women using this method will conceive each year.
The main reason is that contraceptive implants do not rely on you remembering to take a daily pill. The steady hormone release lasts for years without you having to do anything to maintain it actively.
Another benefit is that contraceptive implants provide long-term pregnancy prevention for 3-5 years, depending on the type. This means you can essentially “get it and forget it” when it comes to effective birth control for up to half a decade.
If you know you want to avoid pregnancy for several years, implants eliminate the need to make frequent doctor’s appointments for refills or replacements compared to short-term methods such as the pill.
Additionally, contraceptive implants are completely reversible and can be taken out at any time by a trained healthcare provider. So, unlike permanent options such as tubal ligation, fertility generally returns to normal quickly after implant removal if you decide you want to get pregnant.
Duration of Contraceptive Implants
While the FDA approves contraceptive implants in the U.S. for three years of use, studies have shown they can remain effective at preventing pregnancy for up to 5 years after insertion. Decisions regarding the timing for removal or replacement of your implant can be made by discussing with your doctor.
If continuing beyond three years, physicians recommend confirming the implant remains properly positioned in your arm. Awareness of any shifts or changes around the implant insertion site is wise.
It is also important to ensure you are not pregnant before getting a new contraceptive implant inserted after removing an old one. Return to fertility is rapid with contraceptive implants so that ovulation can resume very quickly after removal.
Nexplanon: The Only Implant Choice in the US
Currently, Nexplanon serves as the sole contraceptive implant choice available for U.S. women. This slim rod contains the hormone etonogestrel, which gradually diffuses into the body over 3-5 years of effectiveness.
Designed for no-fuss insertion and removal, Nexplanon possesses a visibly traceable inner ring, allowing medical professionals to view the implant’s precise location easily using an X-ray. The makers of Nexplanon hold an exclusive patent running until 2027, so no generic versions can debut before then.
Contraceptive Implants and Raleigh Women
When evaluating options for preventing pregnancy, Raleigh women have unique needs and preferences based on their life stages and goals. For example, suppose you are intensely focused on higher education, career growth, athletic achievements, or other priorities. In that case, a set-it-and-forget-it contraceptive akin to Nexplanon can alleviate the responsibility of taking a daily pill.
Access and insurance coverage are two other considerations for Raleigh women deciding on contraceptive methods. North Carolina has expanded Medicaid access, so many low-income residents qualify for programs covering implants at no charge.
The Affordable Care Act also established contraceptive coverage for non-grandfathered plans, meaning all FDA-approved options, such as Nexplanon, should be covered without out-of-pocket costs.
Deciding If Contraceptive Implants Are the Right Choice for You
While Nexplanon offers pregnancy prevention for up to 3 years, it is wise to consider if the implant fits your lifestyle and health status. Consulting your gynecologist or medical provider allows for an open conversation about the pros and cons when weighed against your personal reproductive goals.
Every woman has a unique medical history, so certain risk factors may make contraceptive implants less advisable. For those with blood clot risks, those taking certain anti-seizure medications that impact hormone levels, and those concerned about side effects such as irregular bleeding, other birth control alternatives may be better options.
But after a checkup and discussion to address your questions, many patients can safely use Nexplanon.
Turn to Raleigh Gynecology & Wellness for Guidance on Contraceptive Implants
When it comes to reliable birth control, the duration and efficacy of contraceptive implants such as Nexplanon provide substantial advantages for Raleigh women focused on life goals beyond starting an immediate family.
While not every woman’s health profile matches well with progestin implants, a candid discussion with your gynecologist allows you to weigh your options.
If you wish more guidance, consult with Raleigh Gynecology & Wellness to determine if a long-acting contraceptive such as Nexplanon fits your family planning needs.
Our team can help you find the optimal birth control solution tailored to your lifestyle and reproductive health. Contact us today at (919) 636-6670 or schedule a consultation online to learn how we can help you determine if the implant is right for you.