Is Nexplanon (etonogestrel implant) estrogen-free?

From the Guidelines

Nexplanon is an estrogen-free contraceptive implant, containing only progestin, specifically etonogestrel, which makes it a suitable option for women who cannot take estrogen-containing contraceptives due to medical conditions or side effects. The implant is placed under the skin of the upper arm and releases a small, steady dose of progestin to prevent pregnancy for up to 3 years 1. Nexplanon works primarily by preventing ovulation, thickening cervical mucus to block sperm, and thinning the uterine lining. Some key benefits of Nexplanon include:

• High effectiveness in preventing pregnancy, with a failure rate of less than 1% 1
• Reversibility, with fertility typically returning quickly after removal
• Suitability for women who cannot take estrogen-containing contraceptives due to medical conditions like certain types of migraines, history of blood clots, high blood pressure, or those who experience significant side effects from estrogen
• Convenience, as it does not require regularly scheduled adherence and can remain in place for 3 years. Common side effects of Nexplanon may include:
• Irregular bleeding patterns
• Headaches
• Weight gain
• Acne. It is essential to note that while Nexplanon is estrogen-free, it may still have some effects on bleeding patterns, and users should be counseled about the potential for irregular bleeding or spotting 1.

From the Research

Nexplanon Composition

• Nexplanon is a long-acting reversible contraception method that contains etonogestrel, a type of progestin hormone 2, 3.
• It does not contain estrogen, making it a progestin-only contraceptive method 2, 3.

Comparison with Other Contraceptives

• Progestin-only methods, such as Nexplanon, are associated with rare serious risks compared to estrogen-containing methods 4.
• Nexplanon has a high contraceptive efficacy and a safety profile comparable to other progestin-only contraceptives 3.

Hormonal Content

• Nexplanon releases etonogestrel, a progestin hormone, which provides contraceptive effectiveness 2, 3.
• The implant is designed to provide a steady release of etonogestrel over a period of time, making it a convenient and effective contraceptive option 3.

Key Findings

• Studies have shown that Nexplanon is highly effective in preventing pregnancy, with no pregnancies reported in some studies 3, 5.
• The implant has also been shown to be safe and well-tolerated, with few serious adverse events reported 3.