To worry that it stops working??

[Bluebluesea321]

Nexplanon/the implant - they say it is effective up to 3 years but does that mean you are totally safe up until 3 years, or does it become less effective?

I’m into my 3rd year of it (as in, I’ve had it 2 and a bit years) and have started getting period pains again and more normal ‘period’ symptoms so I am paranoid.

Friends have told me that I’m being neurotic and that they wouldn’t say 3 years if it was that quick to wear off.

Any experiences/knowledge/words of wisdom?

And yes I will probably go to my GP!

Oh and I’ve had a lot of spotting throughout the implant - it’s just more like an actual period now!

I believe it will be safe for three whole years, but if you're worried then use condoms as well?

@plasterboots yeah I think I will have to now I’m worried but sort of defeats the object!

Is it ever possible to get it replaced early? Does anyone know?

Hi, I have assisted with fitting of implanons within a gp surgery. They are very effective for the full three years, you can have them replaced up to three months early but it's not necessary. If you speak to your practice nurse and voice your concerns then he/she may consider changing it early but one of the known side effects are that bleeding can occur irregularly. I've had one myself and had periods every 3-4 months. They work differently for everyone. Phone call to the nurse might ease your fears.

Your friends are correct, the manufacturers would recommend changing it earlier if it wasn't effective

www.nhs.uk/conditions/contraception/contraceptive-implant/

It releases the hormone progestogen into your bloodstream to prevent pregnancy and lasts for 3 years.

At a glance: the implant

The implant is more than 99% effective.

Once the implant is in place, you don't have to think about it again for 3 years.

etc....

My understanding is that they may well be effective for 4, 5 years or more, but the manufacturers have to give a guarantee so they say replace after 3 years, when it is still fully effective.

@Hidingbehindclouds interesting, thank you! I will go and see the nurse.

I suppose irregular bleeding could include sudden changes to cramps, heavier etc as well as the frequency!

@NumbersLetters I do know a few people though who have had no periods for say 2.5 years and then suddenly started getting them - that must be due to a drop in the hormone level? So you’d think that would indicate less effectiveness. I do acknowledge though that the manufacturers have to be careful about the durations they specify!