How long does Nexplanon last before it needs to be replaced?
Nexplanon is an etonogestrel implant placed under the skin. It is approved to provide contraception for up to 3 years, after which it should be removed and replaced if you want to keep using it. [1]
What happens if you keep Nexplanon past 3 years?
If you use Nexplanon longer than the approved 3-year period, its contraceptive effectiveness can decline over time. To stay protected, you should schedule removal (and replacement, if desired) around the 3-year mark. [1]
When should it be replaced if it was inserted at a different time than you planned?
You replace it based on when it was inserted, not the calendar year. If you do not remember the exact insertion date, ask your clinician for the insertion date on your paperwork and plan removal at the 3-year point. [1]
Does Nexplanon’s “lasts up to 3 years” depend on dose, side effects, or user factors?
The approved duration is based on the implant’s design and contraceptive dosing over time, not on side effects. If you notice changes like irregular bleeding, that does not automatically mean the implant is no longer working; replacement is still tied to the insertion date and the 3-year timeframe. [1]
Sources
[1] https://www.nexplanon.com/ (official Nexplanon product site; duration/indication information)