No menstrual bleeding with bloating after nexplanon implant.

Resolved question:

I recently got the nexplanon implant fitted and for the first month as I was on the pill previously I continued to finish my pill packet so when that stopped I got my period on time. It's been two months since then and I haven't had a period, I don't know whether I only got it the first time as I was using the pill - I am aware the implant can stop periods completely. However now I haven't had a period since 6th March and fear I could be pregnant. I don't know whether I'm too worried as I have taken 5 pregnancy tests from being 2 weeks late until 2 days ago and all are negative. I feel heavy and glum however I have put on a few pounds in weight but my stomach has seemed to get huge and round. Would a bump even be visible this early? Any help would be great.. I don't have the time at the moment to visit a doctor so trying to find as much info as I can. I have one more pregnancy test to take next week. Please help. Thanks in advance.

Submitted: 4 Days
Category: Community

Expert:  Dr. John Monheit replied 4 Days.

Hi,

It is unlikely that you are pregnant as a nexplanon is a very effective contraceptive. Even in the off chance that you were pregnant, it would have showed up on the urine pregnancy test.

Nexplanon is a small, flexible, plastic implant that is inserted under the skin of the upper arm to provide contraception for three years. Nexplanon contains the active ingredient etonogestrel. Etonogestrel is a synthetic form of the naturally occurring female sex hormone, progesterone. It is released continuously into the bloodstream from the implant.

It seems that you are suffering from the normal side effects of hormone contraceptive. Hormonal contraceptive can lead to bloating and retention of water which gives the feeling of being pregnant, which is usually not the case.

This contraceptive usually disrupts the menstrual cycle. It may cause irregular bleeding or spotting, heavy or prolonged bleeding, or your menstrual bleeds to stop altogether .This is a part of the contraception and usually becomes better over time.

I would recommend-

1)Take another urine pregnancy test to confirm that you are not pregnant. It may also help, if you are very anxious, to take an ultrasonography of abdomen.

2)There is a slightly increased chance of thrombosis of the veins hence maintain a good and regular regimen of exercise and eat healthy

3)It is recommended that you return to your doctor for a check-up three months after the implant is inserted. Your blood pressure should be checked at this appointment.

4)Mood disturbances are also known to occur with hormonal contraceptive. The degree of mood disturbance varies among various women. If you feel the implant has affected your mood considerably, I would advise you to consult your doctor for further management.

Thank you.

Ask Your Own Medical Question >

Users who read this, also read: