Nexplanon is a small, flexible rod inserted beneath the skin of the upper arm that continuously releases the synthetic progestin hormone etonogestrel to prevent pregnancy for up to three years. While this highly effective, long-acting contraception is reliable, many users are concerned about weight changes during its use. Individuals who gain weight while the implant is in place often wonder if they will lose that weight once the device is removed.
Understanding Hormonal Influence on Weight
Etonogestrel, the implant’s active progestin hormone, can influence several bodily functions that affect weight, though the effect varies significantly among individuals. One common mechanism is the tendency to cause fluid retention, which often presents as bloating and an increase on the scale. This initial weight gain is due to water, not fat accumulation.
The hormone can also influence appetite regulation centers in the brain. Some users report an increase in appetite or a change in satiety, potentially leading to a higher caloric intake over time. Progestins may also impact the body’s fat metabolism and distribution, promoting greater storage in certain areas.
Post-Removal Weight Stabilization and Timeline
Once the Nexplanon implant is removed, the source of etonogestrel is instantly eliminated from the body. The hormone has a short elimination half-life of approximately 25 to 29 hours, meaning levels become virtually undetectable in the bloodstream within about one week of removal.
This rapid hormonal drop initiates the body’s immediate stabilization process. Many individuals notice an initial, quick reduction in weight attributed to the shedding of excess water and a decrease in bloating. This fluid-related weight loss is often the first change observed, sometimes within the first few weeks following removal.
The resolution of other hormonal side effects, such as a stimulated appetite, can take longer as the body re-establishes its natural cycle. While some users report a return to their pre-implant weight within three months, full hormonal rebalancing may take up to six months. The total weight lost depends on whether the weight gained was fluid retention or true fat gain resulting from increased caloric intake.
Lifestyle Factors Influencing Weight Change
Weight changes after removal result from a combination of hormonal recovery and behavioral factors. While the initial loss of fluid is a direct hormonal effect, shedding any fat mass gained requires a return to a balanced energy equation. For those who experienced appetite changes, the removal of etonogestrel can help restore pre-implant hunger cues, making caloric management easier.
The body’s basal metabolic rate also returns to its pre-implant baseline once the synthetic hormone is cleared. This return to baseline can make weight loss efforts, such as diet and exercise, more effective than they were previously. Focusing on a nutrient-dense diet and consistent physical activity will determine the extent of long-term weight loss.