Nexplanon implant and lighter periods

I am 27, and I have been on some form of hormonal birth control since I turned 15. I have used Nexplanon for the last 5 years. Overall, it was a good pick for me because of my irregular schedule and my inability to remember to take something at the same time every day. An IUD was not an option for me because of some family medical history, and at the time that I was looking, I was told that I was not a candidate for Nuvaring. Nexplanon did make my periods significantly lighter, and for a while I didn’t have a period at all. Now my cycles are very irregular (anywhere from 29-44 days in between period start dates) it lasts 2-3 days, and I can survive with light and regular tampons. Before the implant, I had heavy periods that would last at least a week, and I would go through boxes of the super and super plus tampons. I usually had minimal cramping with Nexplanon, although, as I am nearing the end of this second implant, I do think my cramps are starting to become stronger. I have gained quite a bit of weight while I’ve been on it. I'm 5’6” tall, and I started out at 195 lbs in August of 2018. I was at 225 lbs By December of 2019 (16 months/30 lbs), and 250lbs by January 2022 (41 months/55 lbs). My heaviest was in November of 2023 at 271lbs (51 months/76lbs). I’m currently weighing in at 265 lbs (61 months/70lbs). I do not think that all of my weight is attributed to the implant. I think I have some other factors that have contributed to my specific scenario, but I am curious to see how my weight changes once I have this one removed. I think my plan is to go hormone-free after this implant to give my body some time to regulate itself, and see how hormone-free feels.

I am approaching the removal date for my 3rd nexplanon. I’m researching alternative non hormonal options but may just go with another nexplanon as it has been nothing but positive for me for nearly a decade. I decided to leave this review to remind anyone reading that while reviews and the experiences of others are important, everyone is different and will react to birth control methods differently. The nexplanon has been extremely reliable for me with little to no noticeable negative reactions and it could be for you too.

Mostly experienced irregular periods