When does Implanon (etonogestrel implant) expire?
Implanon is an etonogestrel contraceptive implant that is approved to work for up to 3 years from insertion. After that, contraceptive protection can become unreliable, so it should be removed and replaced or replaced with another method if you still want contraception.
How do I find my Implanon expiry date?
Your “expiry date” is based on the date it was inserted, not the date you bought it. Check:
- Your clinic paperwork or insertion record
- Your prescription/implant card (if you received one)
- The date stamped in your medical notes
Count 3 years forward from the insertion date to estimate when it should be removed.
What happens if my Implanon is left in past 3 years?
If the implant is kept in beyond 3 years, its contraceptive effectiveness may drop. If you’re past (or near) the 3-year mark and you’re not planning to remove it immediately, you should use condoms (or another backup contraception) and arrange a replacement/removal as soon as possible.
Can Implanon work longer than 3 years?
The standard guidance is up to 3 years. Using it beyond that time is outside the usual approved duration, so the safest approach is removal/replacement at 3 years.
What’s the difference between Implanon and Nexplanon for expiry?
Nexplanon is a newer brand of the same type of implant (etonogestrel). The approved duration is still 3 years, so expiry is also calculated from the insertion date.
If I’m trying to get pregnant, when should the implant be removed?
To maximize your chances of getting pregnant after stopping contraception, arrange removal when you’re ready. Fertility may return soon after removal, but timing varies person to person.
What if I don’t know the insertion date?
If you don’t know when it was inserted, you should treat it as nearing/at expiry and contact the clinic. A clinician can guide next steps, which may include replacing the implant promptly and using backup contraception in the meantime.
Sources
- https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/contraception/implant-contraception/