A birth control implant (i.e., Nexplanon) falls under one of the main types of contraception or birth control methods and is a tiny, thin rod almost the size of a matchstick. This implant is inserted into the arm under the assistance of a doctor or a nurse, and it releases hormones that prevent a woman from getting pregnant. The procedure only requires the insertion of the implant, and a single birth control implant can function for up to 5 years.

Implants for birth control are among the simplest and hassle-free forms of birth control methods.

The tiny rod (Nexplanon) is implanted under the skin of the upper arm, and it releases progestin, a hormone that prevents pregnancy in two ways:

• The progestin thickens the mucus around the cervix and stops the sperm from flowing toward and meeting an egg for fertilization, preventing pregnancy.
• Progestin also blocks the release of eggs from the ovaries, preventing their contact with the sperm and, in turn, preventing pregnancy.

Nexplanon is effective for 5 years, making it one of the most sought-after birth control methods. Also, getting pregnant after the removal of the implant is easy as compared to other birth control methods, as their effects may take time to wear off.

1. Can it prevent Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs)?
Nexplanon is only a device that prevents pregnancy by blocking the sperm and the ovaries. It is ideal to use a condom to prevent STDs as it prevents skin-to-skin contact, and the usage of a condom along with the implant is an ideal method for preventing both pregnancy and STDs.

2. How effective is an implant?
Nexplanon is 99% effective, making it one of the preferred birth control methods. Since it is an implant in the arm, one need not worry about carrying and using a contraceptive. It is effective for 5 years and prevents pregnancy every day, so there is no risk of incorrect usage or forgetting to use it, which might result in a pregnancy. If one wishes to get pregnant, the implant can be removed.

3. When to get the implant?
Nexplanon can be used during the first five days of a menstrual cycle for assured protection straight away. If the implant is done after the fifth day, it is advisable to use any other kind of protection like a condom for the first week to avoid pregnancy. The implant can be done through any local parenthood health center under the assistance of a doctor or a nurse.

4. How much does the implant cost?
A Nexplanon implant can cost anything between 0 to $1300, and it is usually covered under health insurance plans. The removal charges are around $300, but this might also be covered under insurance. The implant might cost high upfront but over 5 years, it is one of the most efficient and wallet-friendly birth control methods available.