I wrote about getting the Implanon Implant in November 2018 (Nexplanon is the newer version available in the US). It’s a matchstick sized hormonal rod placed in your upper arm and prevents pregnancy for 3 years. I thought I would write an update now that I’ve had it for 8 months.
I decided against the Mirena IUD because so many women on my parenting listserve in Brooklyn reported problems with it. That group had ~5000 people including men and women, so it wasn’t a huge sample size, and the number of problems reported was alarmingly high for me. Mrs. Confetti also blogged about her IUD gone rogue, and Mrs. Cereal posted about her problems below. With lackluster medical care where I live, I didn’t want to take the chance of having any potential problems. The copper IUD was also a no go for me because they typically make your period heavier – something you don’t want when you live on a tropical island!
I’d previously used birth control pills, but now that I’m done having kids, it was a hassle to remember to take a daily pill. I wanted an easier option and when my friend who runs a reproductive health nonprofit here suggested the implant, I decided it was the best and easiest option for me.
The first 3 months after having the implant inserted I had some minor breakouts on my back and face. But now that my body has adjusted to the hormones, those problems are gone. And I have had absolutely no period or spotting at all! I know many women have IUD’s without any complications and are very happy with them. But I am super thrilled with my implant, and highly recommend it if you are looking for an alternative! The process was so fast and easy, and… no period!
Are you happy with your choice of birth control? Why or why not?
pear / 1565 posts
Oo! This is interesting. I’d have to ask my OB about it down the road!
apricot / 390 posts
I had the Implanon for like a year. I also didn’t have any periods, acne or weight gain while it was in. But, I DID have RIDICULOUS anxiety. I’m prone to anxiety anyway, and there were definitely situations in my life at the time that made it worse, but I’m confident that the Implanon really, really affected my anxiety in a negative way. Crying all the time, not being able to sleep due to anxiety, that kind of thing.
Literally a week after removal I felt like a different person (in a good way). Other than the anxiety, it was great, but unfortunately not worth it for me.
admin / watermelon / 14210 posts
@smuckers: hmmm very interesting. just did some reading and some people have reported increased anxiety and depression. hard to tell for me as i’m going through a tough time right now whether it’s situational or the implant. there is no perfect birth control!