How is the Nexplanon (etonogestrel) contraceptive implant inserted?
Only a healthcare professional specially trained in the insertion and removal of the contraceptive implant should insert the Nexplanon implant. The insertion procedure is simple and should only take a few minutes.
The steps involved in the insertion of the contraceptive implant are outlined below.
- You will be asked to lie on your back with the arm that the contraceptive implant is to be inserted into slightly bent at the elbow and turned outwards.
- The insertion site will be identified and a disinfectant used to clean the area. A local anaesthetic will be used to numb the area.
- The skin covering the insertion site will be stretched slightly to allow a needle to be inserted directly under it.
- The Nexplanon implant will then be inserted and the healthcare professional will check it is in the right position. You will be asked to feel the Nexplanon implant, although you should not be able to see it.
- A sterile dressing and a pressure bandage to minimise bruising will be placed over the site of insertion. The pressure bandage can be removed after 24 hours, and the sterile dressing after 3–5 days.
- The healthcare professional will give you a copy of the Nexplanon Patient Information Leaflet and a user card that details the location of the Nexplanon implant, the date of insertion and the latest date that the Nexplanon implant should be removed or replaced. Keep this card in a safe place as it can help with removal of the contraceptive implant later on.
