How safe is the birth control implant?

The implant is very safe for most people, but all medications have some risks and side effects. Your doctor will help you figure out if the implant is safe for you.

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Want the implant?

Can I get the birth control implant?

Most people can use the implant — also called Nexplanon — safely, but you shouldn’t use it if you’ve had breast cancer. Talk with your nurse or doctor about any other health conditions you have and you can decide together if the implant is a good fit for you.

What are the risks of using the birth control implant?

Serious problems with Nexplanon are rare, but they include arm pain that lasts for longer than a few days, an infection in the arm that needs medicine, or a scar on your arm where the implant goes. Very rarely, the implant can bend or break in your arm. If that happens, it may not be working and needs to be taken out.

Tell your doctor or nurse if you have any of the following while using Nexplanon:

You can always call your doctor or your local Planned Parenthood health center if you have any concerns about your implant. They can help with any questions you may have.

Is it safe to use the implant while breastfeeding?

Yes, it’s safe to use the implant while you’re breastfeeding. It shouldn’t have any effect on how much milk you produce, and it won’t hurt your baby. In fact, the implant is a great method to use if you’re breastfeeding and you don’t want to get pregnant.

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The implant doesn’t protect you from STDs. Use a condom with your implant to help stop pregnancy and STDs.

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Planned Parenthood Federation of America, Inc. (PPFA) works to protect and expand access to sexual and reproductive health care and education, and provides support to its member affiliates. Planned Parenthood affiliates are separately incorporated public charities that operate health centers across the U.S. as trusted sources of health care and education for people of all genders in communities across the country. PPFA is tax-exempt under Internal Revenue Code section 501(c)(3) - EIN 13-1644147. Donations are tax-deductible to the fullest extent allowable under the law.

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