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Can You Get Pregnant on Nexplanon? What You Need to Know About Birth Control Implants

Alan Lucks | MD

Medically reviewed by Alan Lucks | MD, Alan Lucks MDPC Private Practice - New York on February 2nd, 2026.

Published on January 23rd, 2026. Updated on July 23rd, 2026.

Women's Health 2 min

Key takeaways

  • Nexplanon is over 99% effective at preventing pregnancy

  • The implant lasts up to 3 years and can be removed earlier if desired

  • Fewer than 1 in 100 women become pregnant while using Nexplanon

  • Pregnancy is possible but extremely rare with correct usage

Birth control options continue to evolve, offering women increasingly convenient and reliable methods of contraception. The Nexplanon implant represents one of the most effective birth control options available today. This small, flexible rod placed under the skin provides long-term pregnancy prevention with minimal daily management.

Birth control implants like Nexplanon offer a unique approach to contraception. Unlike daily pills or monthly injections, this small device provides continuous protection with a single medical procedure. For women seeking healthy pregnancy planning or immediate contraception, understanding how Nexplanon works is crucial.

Understanding Nexplanon's Mechanism

The Nexplanon implant works through a sophisticated hormonal mechanism. Measuring approximately the size of a matchstick, this thin plastic rod releases progestin, a synthetic hormone that prevents pregnancy through multiple pathways. It stops ovulation, thickens cervical mucus, and alters the uterine lining to prevent fertilization.

Pregnancy Risks and Effectiveness

While no contraceptive method is 100% guaranteed, Nexplanon offers exceptional protection. Clinical studies demonstrate that fewer than 1 in 100 women become pregnant annually when the implant is correctly inserted and maintained. The birth control during pregnancy considerations make Nexplanon particularly appealing for its reliability.

Factors Affecting Nexplanon's Effectiveness

Several factors can potentially reduce Nexplanon's effectiveness. These include:

  • Incorrect insertion

  • Using medications that interact with hormonal contraception

  • Exceeding the recommended 3-year usage period

  • Individual metabolic variations

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Insertion and Removal Process

A healthcare professional inserts the Nexplanon implant under the skin of the upper arm during a quick, minimally invasive procedure. The process typically takes just a few minutes and requires local anesthesia. When you're ready to become pregnant or want to change contraception methods, a similar brief procedure removes the implant.

Pregnancy Possibility Comparison Table

Contraceptive Method

Annual Pregnancy Rate

Duration of Effectiveness

Nexplanon Implant

<1%

Up to 3 years

Birth Control Pills

~9%

Daily

Condoms

~18%

Single use

Copper IUD

<1%

Up to 10 years

Frequently Asked Questions

Fertility typically returns quickly. Some women can conceive within weeks of removal.

No. Nexplanon only prevents pregnancy and does not protect against STIs.

Most women can feel a small, firm rod under their skin if they press on the insertion site.

Contact your healthcare provider immediately to ensure proper placement.

Some women experience irregular bleeding, mood changes, or headaches, but side effects vary individually.

The Bottom Line

Nexplanon offers a highly effective, low-maintenance contraception option for many women. While pregnancy is possible, it remains extremely unlikely when the implant is correctly used.

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