Nexplanon implant and headaches

Due to a family history of thrombosis I was advised against the combined pill which at the time was still the most common option, so the implant seemed a good choice. Whilst it was convenient in that it was long lasting and easily fitted, with no horrendous side effects, with the conversation about choices becoming more open I realised that I had been putting up with side effects which were gradually getting me down - irregular bleeding and low libido (possibly connected!) made regular sex with my partner less easy and fun than it should be, and I found that the more I exercised the more I bled, and I wanted to exercise more. I decided to switch to the copper IUD to experience a normal cycle again without the hormones, and am very happy I changed.

I enjoyed the convenience of this birth control but the side effects are not worth it. My mood has been like a roller coaster every day and I have had debilitating anxiety after being on this contraception for nearly 2 years. The constant spotting and light cramps are awful and the cystic acne and constant breast pain are too. It is very effective at preventing pregnancy though.

For two years I had good and bad experiences with the Implant. I would definitely say the negative side effects definitely fall under mental health (depression and mood swings), sometimes I would get nausea to the point of wanting to vomit everywhere, migraines, lower back pain. My libido is below low levels. I think I lost myself over this 2 years, I don't feel like the same person mentally. However, this is the best contraception in terms of insertion and daily practicality. I wanted to start having contraception but I didn't want the pill (because I am very forgetful), I didn't want the diaphragm (too complicated) but this one was just perfect and painless procedure. Also, my body changed a little bit over the years but it was because I started being careless with my eating habits, so it is easy for your weight to change with the implant. And in terms of hair and skin, for me it didn't change much, I would get a pimple every now and then but it would go away by itself. If it wasn't for the mental health for sure I wouldn't take it out.