I had a Nexplanon implant for just over two years, and had it removed a couple of months ago. It is like a dark cloud has been lifted from my chest and I can finally see and feel the world clearly again!
Four months from having the implant inserted, I began feeling extremely depressed and having panic attacks. I had had infrequent periods of anxiety/low mood before the implant, but this was like nothing I had ever experienced before. I visited the doctor and was diagnosed with moderate depression. The doctor wanted me to go on anti-depressants but I refused and pushed for CBT. Following a 10 week wait, and I then had 6 sessions of CBT. It helped somewhat, and I began using mindfulness as a coping mechanism... the depression, although more manageable, lingered on. It felt like a constant grey cloud, weighing me down. At no point did any of the medical professionals I saw during this period suggest Nexplanon may be having an influence. After a bit of reading, I decided getting rid of the implant was at least worth a shot to see if it helped. At the Sexual Health Clinic I explained my reasons for wanting the implant removed, and was told there was very little evidence to suggest that Nexplanon was linked to depression and they suggested I keep it in. I insisted on having it taken out, as I at least wanted to know that my hormones were my own.
Now, two months down the line, the difference I feel is incredible! I am convinced Nexplanon is responsible for the depression taking a permanent and chronic role in my life, and I am so glad it's out. It shouldn't be given to people with a history of low mood without careful monitoring.
I've now noticed on the drugs.com webpage for Nexplanon that it says "Women with a history of depressed mood should be carefully observed. Consideration should be given to removing Nexplanon in patients who become significantly depressed."
Why on earth the implant wasn't picked up as a potential trigger for my depression by any medical professionals, and it was left to my own initiative to have it removed, is completely beyond me.
There is so little information about this on the internet so I wanted to post something here.
Has anyone else had similar experiences with Nexplanon?