Nexplanon vs. Paragard for Birth Control: Important Differences and Potential Risks.

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)

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Paragard

(copper IUD)

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Summary for Nexplanon

Prescription only

Nexplanon (etonogestrel) is an implant placed in your arm to prevent pregnancy. It's a type of long-acting birth control that can prevent pregnancy for up to 5 years after insertion. It's one of the most effective forms of birth control available. Nexplanon (etonogestrel) only contains one type of hormone, a progestin called etonogestrel. The most common side effects include headaches and irregular vaginal bleeding (e.g., longer periods, spotting).

Indications for Nexplanon

To prevent pregnancy

Pros and Cons for Nexplanon

Pros

Keeps working for 5 years without needing to remember to take the medication every day
Works better than birth control pills to prevent pregnancy
Can be inserted and removed at the medical office within a few minutes and without any kind of sedation (medication to put you asleep)
Can use while breastfeeding as long as it's been 4 weeks since you gave birth

Cons

Common to have breakthrough bleeding and irregular cycles as side effects
Can raise your blood pressure or lead to mood changes
Can raise the risk of an ectopic pregnancy if you do get pregnant
Risk of the implant moving and not working well

Common Side Effects for Nexplanon

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%)

Warnings for Nexplanon

Risk of problems from improper insertion and removal
Irregular periods
Risk of ectopic pregnancy
Risk of ovarian cyst
Risk of blood clots
Possible risk of cancer
Liver problems
High blood pressure
High blood sugar and cholesterol levels
Weight gain
Gallbladder problems
Vision changes in people who wear contact lenses
Fertility after removal

Summary for Paragard

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.