Nexplanon is a widely used birth control implant, a small, matchstick-sized rod placed under the skin of the upper arm. Many individuals considering its removal often wonder about the pain involved in the process. Understanding the procedure and what sensations to expect can help ease concerns and prepare for the experience.
Understanding the Nexplanon Removal Process
The removal of a Nexplanon implant is a minor surgical procedure performed in a healthcare provider’s office. The process begins with the healthcare professional locating the implant by palpation. Once the exact location is confirmed, the inner side of the upper arm is cleaned with an antiseptic solution.
A local anesthetic is then injected to numb the skin around the implant. While the injection might cause a pinch or sting, the area will become numb shortly after. The healthcare provider then makes a small incision over or near the end of the implant.
After the incision, the implant is pushed towards the opening until its tip becomes visible. Forceps are used to grasp the implant and pull it out of the arm. The entire removal process is usually quick. If the implant is not immediately visible, the provider may reposition it to ease removal.
Managing Discomfort During and After Removal
During Nexplanon removal, patients typically experience minimal pain due to the local anesthetic. While the numbing shot might feel like a pinch or sting, the incision and implant removal usually do not cause sharp pain. Individuals may feel sensations such as pressure, pulling, or tugging as the implant is manipulated and extracted. These sensations are described as unusual or strange.
After the procedure, it is common to experience some mild soreness or aching in the arm. This discomfort is manageable with over-the-counter pain medications. Bruising around the removal site is common and may last for a week or two.
To minimize bruising and support healing, a pressure bandage is applied immediately after removal and should remain on for 24 hours. Following this, an adhesive bandage covers the incision for three to five days. Keep the removal site clean and dry, and avoid strenuous activity or heavy lifting for a few days.
Factors Influencing Discomfort Levels
Several factors can influence the level of sensation experienced during and after Nexplanon removal. A factor is the formation of scar tissue around the implant over time. This fibrous tissue can adhere to the implant, making its extraction more involved and potentially leading to increased pressure sensations. The depth at which the implant was originally inserted also plays a role.
Implants placed deeper than intended, or those that have migrated, can present a more complex removal. In such instances, the procedure might take longer, requiring more manipulation to locate and extract the device. While the area remains numbed, extended manipulation can contribute to a greater awareness of pressure or tugging.
An individual’s pain threshold can also affect their perception of discomfort. While the procedure is not painful, some people may be more sensitive to pressure sensations or the initial numbing injection. In rare cases, if the implant cannot be located, imaging techniques may be used, and specialized providers may be needed for removal.