Nexplanon Removal Procedure

Pre-Removal Preparation

No specific examinations or tests are needed before removal of an implant in healthy women, as recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention 1
The procedure should not be performed in the presence of active infection at the removal site, according to the American Urological Association 2

The implant is typically removed from the inside of the non-dominant upper arm, 6-8 cm above the elbow, as stated by the American Academy of Pediatrics 3
Nexplanon contains barium sulfate, making it visible on radiography, as noted by the American Academy of Pediatrics 3
Transient nerve injury is rare but possible during removal, as reported by the American Academy of Pediatrics 3

If continuing contraception is desired, a new implant can be inserted immediately through the same incision used for removal, as recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention 4
When switching to another contraceptive method after removal, hormonal methods can be started immediately, as advised by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention 4
If switching to an IUD, it can be inserted immediately, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention 4
If no new contraceptive method is started immediately, advise on alternative contraception if needed, as recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention 4
Removal can be performed at any time during the menstrual cycle, as stated by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention 4
For women who wish to continue using Nexplanon, a new implant can be inserted immediately after removal of the old implant, as recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention 4

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that when switching contraceptive methods, the new method can be started immediately if it is reasonably certain that the woman is not pregnant 5
No waiting period is necessary between Nexplanon removal and starting a new contraceptive method, such as EVA, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention 5
If EVA is started immediately after Nexplanon removal, no additional backup contraception is needed, as recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention 5
For optimal contraceptive coverage, healthcare providers should have the new method (EVA) available at the time of Nexplanon removal, as suggested by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention 5
Failing to have the new method available at the time of removal may lead to gaps in contraceptive coverage, which can be avoided by following the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's recommendations 5