The Nexplanon implant is a popular long-acting reversible contraceptive (LARC) that is inserted into the upper arm. It is a small, thin rod that releases hormones to prevent pregnancy. Nexplanon is generally safe and effective, but some women do experience side effects, including pain at the insertion site.
In most cases, insertion site pain from Nexplanon goes away within a few weeks. However, some women may experience pain that lasts for months or even years. This is usually due to one of three reasons: the implant was not inserted correctly, the implant has become embedded in the skin, or the woman is experiencing an allergic reaction to the implant.
If you are experiencing pain at the Nexplanon insertion site months later, it is important to see your doctor to determine the cause and get treatment.
Why Does My Nexplanon Hurt Months Later?
Here are 8 important points to consider:
- Incorrect insertion
- Implant embedded in skin
- Allergic reaction
- Infection
- Nerve damage
- Scar tissue
- Hormonal changes
- Other medical conditions
If you are experiencing pain at the Nexplanon insertion site months later, it is important to see your doctor to determine the cause and get treatment.
Incorrect insertion
One of the most common reasons why Nexplanon hurts months later is incorrect insertion. This can happen if the implant is inserted too deeply, too superficially, or at an angle.
Incorrect insertion can cause a variety of problems, including pain, bruising, swelling, and infection. In some cases, the implant may even migrate to another part of the body.
If you think your Nexplanon implant was inserted incorrectly, it is important to see your doctor right away. They will be able to examine the implant and determine if it needs to be removed or reinserted.
Here are some signs and symptoms of incorrect Nexplanon insertion:
- Pain at the insertion site that does not go away after a few weeks
- Bruising or swelling at the insertion site
- Redness or drainage from the insertion site
- A feeling that the implant is moving or shifting under the skin
- Pain during sex
- Unplanned pregnancy
If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to see your doctor right away.
Incorrect insertion of the Nexplanon implant is a serious problem that can lead to a variety of health complications. If you think your implant was inserted incorrectly, it is important to see your doctor right away.
Implant embedded in skin
Another reason why Nexplanon may hurt months later is if the implant has become embedded in the skin. This can happen if the implant was inserted too superficially or if the skin around the implant has grown over time.
- Implant is no longer palpable
If the implant has become embedded in the skin, it may no longer be palpable (able to be felt under the skin). This can make it difficult to remove the implant when it is time for it to be replaced.
- Pain and irritation
An embedded implant can also cause pain and irritation. This is especially true if the implant is rubbing against a nerve or tendon.
- Infection
An embedded implant can also increase the risk of infection. This is because the implant can create a pathway for bacteria to enter the body.
- Other complications
In some cases, an embedded implant can also lead to other complications, such as scarring, nerve damage, and blood clots.
If you think your Nexplanon implant may be embedded in the skin, it is important to see your doctor right away. They will be able to examine the implant and determine if it needs to be removed.
Allergic reaction
In some cases, Nexplanon pain may be caused by an allergic reaction to the implant. This is rare, but it can happen.
- Symptoms of an allergic reaction to Nexplanon may include:
- Rash
- Hives
- Swelling
- Itching
- Difficulty breathing
- Anaphylaxis (a severe allergic reaction that can be life-threatening)
- Treatment for an allergic reaction to Nexplanon
If you think you may be having an allergic reaction to Nexplanon, it is important to see your doctor right away. They will be able to confirm the diagnosis and prescribe treatment. Treatment for an allergic reaction to Nexplanon may include:
- Antihistamines
- Steroids
- Epinephrine (in the case of anaphylaxis)
- Removal of the implant
In some cases, it may be necessary to remove the Nexplanon implant if the allergic reaction is severe. This is a simple procedure that can be done in a doctor's office.
- Prevention of future allergic reactions
If you have had an allergic reaction to Nexplanon, it is important to tell your doctor before you try any other type of hormonal birth control. You may also want to consider using a non-hormonal method of birth control, such as a copper IUD or condoms.
Allergic reactions to Nexplanon are rare, but they can happen. If you think you may be having an allergic reaction to Nexplanon, it is important to see your doctor right away.
Infection
Infection is another possible cause of Nexplanon pain months later. This is a rare but serious complication that can occur if bacteria are introduced into the skin at the time of insertion or if the implant becomes embedded in the skin.
- Symptoms of an infection at the Nexplanon insertion site may include:
- Redness
- Swelling
- Pain
- Drainage
- Fever
- Chills
- Treatment for an infection at the Nexplanon insertion site
If you think you may have an infection at the Nexplanon insertion site, it is important to see your doctor right away. They will be able to confirm the diagnosis and prescribe treatment. Treatment for an infection at the Nexplanon insertion site may include:
- Antibiotics
- Removal of the implant
- Drainage of the infection
- Prevention of infection at the Nexplanon insertion site
There are a few things you can do to help prevent infection at the Nexplanon insertion site, including:
- Make sure your doctor washes their hands and the insertion site before inserting the implant.
- Keep the insertion site clean and dry.
- Avoid touching or scratching the insertion site.
- See your doctor right away if you experience any signs of infection.
- Long-term risks of infection at the Nexplanon insertion site
If an infection at the Nexplanon insertion site is not treated promptly, it can lead to serious complications, including:
- Sepsis (a life-threatening infection)
- Endocarditis (an infection of the heart valves)
- Osteomyelitis (an infection of the bone)
Infection at the Nexplanon insertion site is a rare but serious complication. If you think you may have an infection, it is important to see your doctor right away.
Nerve damage
Nerve damage is another possible cause of Nexplanon pain months later. This is a rare but serious complication that can occur if the implant is inserted near a nerve or if the nerve is injured during insertion.
Nerve damage can cause a variety of symptoms, including:
- Pain
- Numbness
- Tingling
- Burning
- Weakness
- Muscle spasms
Nerve damage can also lead to long-term problems, such as:
- Chronic pain
- Difficulty moving the affected area
- Muscle atrophy
If you think you may have nerve damage from Nexplanon, it is important to see your doctor right away. They will be able to confirm the diagnosis and recommend treatment. Treatment for nerve damage from Nexplanon may include:
- Pain medication
- Physical therapy li>Occupational therapy
- Surgery
In some cases, nerve damage from Nexplanon may be permanent.
Nerve damage from Nexplanon is a rare but serious complication. If you think you may have nerve damage from Nexplanon, it is important to see your doctor right away.
Scar tissue
Scar tissue is another possible cause of Nexplanon pain months later. This can occur if the implant is inserted through a small incision that does not heal properly. Scar tissue can also form around the implant if it is left in place for too long.
Scar tissue can cause a variety of problems, including:
- Pain
- Swelling
- Redness
- Itching
- Tenderness
- Difficulty moving the affected area
Scar tissue can also make it difficult to remove the Nexplanon implant when it is time for it to be replaced.
If you think you may have scar tissue from Nexplanon, it is important to see your doctor. They will be able to confirm the diagnosis and recommend treatment. Treatment for scar tissue from Nexplanon may include:
- Massage
- Physical therapy
- Steroid injections
- Surgery
In some cases, scar tissue from Nexplanon may be permanent.
Scar tissue from Nexplanon is a rare but possible complication. If you think you may have scar tissue from Nexplanon, it is important to see your doctor right away.
Hormonal changes
Nexplanon is a hormonal contraceptive implant that releases a progestin hormone called etonogestrel. This hormone works by preventing ovulation and thickening the cervical mucus to make it more difficult for sperm to reach the egg.
In some women, the hormonal changes caused by Nexplanon can lead to pain months later. This is especially true for women who are sensitive to hormonal changes. Symptoms of hormonal changes from Nexplanon may include:
- Headaches
- Mood swings
- Breast tenderness
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Weight gain
- Acne
- Irregular bleeding
In most cases, these symptoms will go away within a few months as the body adjusts to the hormonal changes. However, some women may experience pain from hormonal changes for longer than a few months.
If you think you may be experiencing pain from hormonal changes caused by Nexplanon, it is important to see your doctor. They will be able to confirm the diagnosis and recommend treatment. Treatment for pain from hormonal changes caused by Nexplanon may include:
- Over-the-counter pain medication
- Hormonal birth control pills
- Removal of the Nexplanon implant
Hormonal changes from Nexplanon can cause pain months later in some women. If you think you may be experiencing pain from hormonal changes caused by Nexplanon, it is important to see your doctor.
Other medical conditions
In some cases, pain at the Nexplanon insertion site months later may be caused by an underlying medical condition. This is especially true for women who have a history of certain medical conditions, such as:
- Lupus
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Sjögren's syndrome
- Fibromyalgia
- Multiple sclerosis
- Diabetes
- HIV/AIDS
- Cancer
These conditions can cause inflammation and pain throughout the body, including at the Nexplanon insertion site. If you have a history of any of these conditions, it is important to tell your doctor before getting Nexplanon. They will be able to assess your risk of developing pain at the insertion site and recommend other birth control options if necessary.
It is also important to note that some women may develop pain at the Nexplanon insertion site months later due to other factors, such as stress, anxiety, or depression. If you think your pain may be caused by one of these factors, it is important to talk to your doctor. They will be able to help you determine the cause of your pain and recommend treatment.
In some cases, pain at the Nexplanon insertion site months later may be caused by an underlying medical condition or other factors. If you are experiencing pain at the Nexplanon insertion site, it is important to see your doctor to determine the cause and get treatment.
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about Nexplanon pain months later:
Question 1: Why does my Nexplanon implant hurt months later?
Answer 1: There are a number of reasons why you may be experiencing pain at the Nexplanon insertion site months later. These include incorrect insertion, the implant becoming embedded in the skin, an allergic reaction, infection, nerve damage, scar tissue, hormonal changes, or other medical conditions.
Question 2: What are the symptoms of incorrect Nexplanon insertion?
Answer 2: Symptoms of incorrect Nexplanon insertion may include pain at the insertion site that does not go away after a few weeks, bruising or swelling at the insertion site, redness or drainage from the insertion site, a feeling that the implant is moving or shifting under the skin, pain during sex, or unplanned pregnancy.
Question 3: What are the symptoms of an embedded Nexplanon implant?
Answer 3: Symptoms of an embedded Nexplanon implant may include the implant no longer being palpable (able to be felt under the skin), pain and irritation at the insertion site, increased risk of infection, or other complications such as scarring, nerve damage, and blood clots.
Question 4: What are the symptoms of an allergic reaction to Nexplanon?
Answer 4: Symptoms of an allergic reaction to Nexplanon may include rash, hives, swelling, itching, difficulty breathing, or anaphylaxis (a severe allergic reaction that can be life-threatening).
Question 5: What are the symptoms of an infection at the Nexplanon insertion site?
Answer 5: Symptoms of an infection at the Nexplanon insertion site may include redness, swelling, pain, drainage, fever, or chills.
Question 6: What are the symptoms of nerve damage from Nexplanon?
Answer 6: Symptoms of nerve damage from Nexplanon may include pain, numbness, tingling, burning, weakness, or muscle spasms in the area around the insertion site.
Question 7: What are the symptoms of scar tissue from Nexplanon?
Answer 7: Symptoms of scar tissue from Nexplanon may include pain, swelling, redness, itching, tenderness, or difficulty moving the affected area.
Question 8: What are the symptoms of hormonal changes from Nexplanon?
Answer 8: Symptoms of hormonal changes from Nexplanon may include headaches, mood swings, breast tenderness, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, weight gain, acne, or irregular bleeding.
Question 9: What should I do if I am experiencing pain at the Nexplanon insertion site months later?
Answer 9: If you are experiencing pain at the Nexplanon insertion site months later, it is important to see your doctor to determine the cause and get treatment. Treatment will depend on the underlying cause of your pain.
Question 10: Can Nexplanon pain months later be prevented?
Answer 10: There is no sure way to prevent Nexplanon pain months later, but there are some things you can do to reduce your risk, such as making sure your doctor washes their hands and the insertion site before inserting the implant, keeping the insertion site clean and dry, avoiding touching or scratching the insertion site, and seeing your doctor right away if you experience any signs of infection or other problems.
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If you have any other questions about Nexplanon pain months later, please talk to your doctor.
In addition to the information in this FAQ, there are a few tips that may help you manage Nexplanon pain months later. These tips include:
Tips
In addition to the information in the FAQ, here are a few tips that may help you manage Nexplanon pain months later:
Tip 1: Apply a warm compress to the insertion site.
Applying a warm compress to the insertion site can help to reduce pain and inflammation. To make a warm compress, simply soak a washcloth in warm water and apply it to the insertion site for 15-20 minutes at a time. You can repeat this several times a day as needed.
Tip 2: Take over-the-counter pain medication.
If you are experiencing pain at the Nexplanon insertion site, you can take over-the-counter pain medication, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, to help relieve the pain. Be sure to follow the directions on the package and do not take more than the recommended dosage.
Tip 3: Avoid putting pressure on the insertion site.
Avoid putting pressure on the insertion site, as this can aggravate the pain. This means avoiding wearing tight clothing or engaging in activities that put pressure on the area, such as contact sports or heavy lifting.
Tip 4: See your doctor if the pain is severe or does not go away.
If the pain at the Nexplanon insertion site is severe or does not go away after a few weeks, it is important to see your doctor. They will be able to determine the cause of your pain and recommend treatment.
Closing Paragraph for Tips
These are just a few tips that may help you manage Nexplanon pain months later. If you are experiencing pain, talk to your doctor to determine the best course of treatment for you.
If you are considering getting Nexplanon, it is important to weigh the benefits and risks of the implant. Nexplanon is a safe and effective method of birth control, but it is not right for everyone. If you have any concerns about Nexplanon, talk to your doctor.
Conclusion
Nexplanon is a safe and effective method of birth control, but it is not right for everyone. Some women may experience pain at the insertion site months later. This pain can be caused by a number of factors, including incorrect insertion, the implant becoming embedded in the skin, an allergic reaction, infection, nerve damage, scar tissue, hormonal changes, or other medical conditions.
If you are experiencing pain at the Nexplanon insertion site months later, it is important to see your doctor to determine the cause and get treatment. Treatment will depend on the underlying cause of your pain.
There are a few things you can do to reduce your risk of developing pain at the Nexplanon insertion site months later, such as making sure your doctor washes their hands and the insertion site before inserting the implant, keeping the insertion site clean and dry, avoiding touching or scratching the insertion site, and seeing your doctor right away if you experience any signs of infection or other problems.
If you are considering getting Nexplanon, it is important to weigh the benefits and risks of the implant. Talk to your doctor about your individual needs and risk factors to determine if Nexplanon is the right method of birth control for you.
Closing Message
If you have any questions or concerns about Nexplanon pain months later, please talk to your doctor.