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Compare Nexplanon vs. Paragard

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Nexplanon (etonogestrel) and Paragard (copper IUD) are both highly effective birth control options, but they work in different ways and have distinct features. Nexplanon is a small implant placed under the skin of your upper arm that releases a hormone called etonogestrel and prevents pregnancy for up to 3 years. In contrast, Paragard is a hormone-free intrauterine device (IUD) that releases copper into your uterus and can prevent pregnancy for up to 10 years. Nexplanon can cause side effects like irregular vaginal bleeding, headaches, and weight gain, while Paragard may lead to heavier or longer menstrual periods and spotting between periods. Nexplanon is inserted and removed through a minor procedure in your arm, whereas Paragard is placed and removed by a healthcare provider directly in your uterus. Both methods require a prescription and do not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). If you prefer a hormone-free option and longer-lasting protection, Paragard might be more suitable, but if you want a shorter-term solution, Nexplanon could be the better choice.

  • Nexplanon (etonogestrel)
    Paragard (copper IUD)
  • Nexplanon (etonogestrel)
    Paragard (copper IUD)

  • Summary of Nexplanon vs. Paragard

    Summary for Progestin
    Prescription only

    Nexplanon (etonogestrel) is an implant placed in your arm to prevent pregnancy. It's a long-acting medication that continues to prevent pregnancy for up to 3 years after insertion. It's one of the most effective forms of birth control available. Unlike other birth control options that contain two hormones (estrogen and progesterone), Nexplanon (etonogestrel) only contains a progesterone called etonogestrel. The most common side effects include irregular vaginal bleeding (e.g., longer periods, spotting) and headaches.

    Summary for Contraceptive
    Prescription only

    Paragard (copper IUD) is a hormone-free intrauterine device (IUD) that's used to prevent pregnancy. It's a small, T-shaped device that's inserted into the uterus (womb) by a healthcare provider. Paragard (copper IUD) is convenient to use because you can leave it in place for up to 10 years. It's also one of the most effective forms of birth control available. Some common side effects of Paragard (copper IUD) include heavier or longer menstrual periods and bleeding and spotting in between each period.

  • Indications of Nexplanon vs. Paragard

    Indications for
    •To prevent pregnancy
    Indications for
    •To prevent pregnancy

  • Pros and Cons of Nexplanon vs. Paragard

    Pros and Const for Progestin
    Pros
    •Works better than oral birth control pills to prevent pregnancy
    •Can be inserted in your provider's office within a few minutes and without any kind of sedation (medication to put you asleep)
    •Continues working for 3 years and doesn't require you to remember to take the medication every day
    •Can be used while breastfeeding as long as it's been 4 weeks since you gave birth
    •A possible lower-cost birth control option for people without insurance
    Cons
    •Can raise your risk of an ectopic pregnancy if you do get pregnant
    •Breakthrough bleeding and irregular cycles are common side effects.
    •Can raise your blood pressure
    •Might lead to mood changes or depression
    •Risk of Nexplanon (etonogestrel) implant moving and not working well
    Pros and Const for Contraceptive
    Pros
    •Over 99% effective at preventing pregnancy
    •Doesn't contain any hormones
    •Each Paragard (copper IUD) can be used for up to 10 years at a time.
    •Can be removed by a healthcare provider at any time
    Cons
    •Must be placed into the uterus by a healthcare provider
    •Placement procedure can be uncomfortable
    •Might cause heavier or longer periods
    •Doesn't protect against sexually transmitted diseases (STDs)

  • Common Side Effects of Nexplanon vs. Paragard

    Common Side Effects for
    •Headache (25%)
    •Absence of period (20%)
    •More frequent or longer vaginal bleeding (20%)
    •Vaginal pain or itching (15%)
    •Weight gain (14%)
    •Acne (14%)
    •Breast pain (13%)
    •Stomach pain (11%)
    •Sore throat (11%)
    •Vaginal discharge (10%)
    Common Side Effects for
    •Pain and cramping, including menstrual cramps (up to 12%)
    •IUD falling out of place (up to 6%)
    •Longer menstrual periods
    •Spotting between menstrual periods

    Please note: Your risk for certain side effects are higher in the first few years after Paragard (copper IUD) placement and lowers over time.

  • Warnings of Nexplanon vs. Paragard

    Common Side Effects for
    •Problems during insertion and removal
    •Irregular periods
    •Ectopic pregnancy or ovarian cyst
    •Blood clots
    •Possible risk of cancer
    •Future fertility
    •Liver problems
    •High blood pressure
    •High blood sugar and cholesterol levels
    •Weight gain
    •Gallbladder problems
    •Vision changes
    Common Side Effects for
    •Changes in bleeding pattern
    •Risks with becoming pregnant with Paragard (copper IUD) in place
    •Sepsis (complication from an infection)
    •Pelvic inflammatory disease and inflammation in the uterus
    •Difficult removal of Paragard (copper IUD)
    •Tear in the uterus
    •Paragard (copper IUD) falling out
    •Tissue damage from certain medical procedures or scans

  • Prices with our coupons for Nexplanon vs. Paragard

    Learn more about Nexplanon
    Learn more about Paragard

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