Symptoms of Pregnancy with Expired Implanon: Understanding the Risks and Signs
Implanon is a small flexible plastic rod that is inserted under the skin of the arm, a widely used form of birth control that can last up to three years. Once expired, however, its effectiveness decreases significantly, leaving users at risk of pregnancy. In this article, we aim to explain the risks and pregnancy symptoms that a woman might experience with an expired Implanon.
What Is Expired Implanon?
First, it’s essential to understand what an expired implanon is. Implanon is a hormonal birth control method that women use to prevent pregnancy. It works by releasing progesterone into the body and preventing ovulation. However, over time, Implanon’s efficacy can decrease, which is why it’s essential to keep track of its expiration date. The FDA has approved Implanon to last up to three years, and after that, it is considered expired.
Risks of Pregnancy with Expired Implanon
Once Implanon has expired, the hormones in the device may become less effective in preventing pregnancy. Therefore, a woman using expired Implanon is at an increased risk of getting pregnant. There have been cases where women using expired Implanon have conceived, even though they previously haven’t had issues with the device. If you think you might be pregnant with expired Implanon, it’s essential to talk to your doctor about the potential risks and options.
Symptoms of Pregnancy with Expired Implanon
If you’re using expired Implanon and are experiencing any pregnancy symptoms, it’s important to take them seriously. The following are potential signs of pregnancy with expired Implanon:
Menstrual Changes: One of the most significant signs of pregnancy with expired Implanon is changes in menstrual behavior. This can include missed periods, spotting, and irregular cycles. If your cycle has changed or stopped, it’s essential to take a pregnancy test to rule out the possibility of pregnancy.
Nausea and Vomiting: Morning sickness is a well-known symptom of pregnancy, but nausea and vomiting can also occur with expired Implanon. If you have been taking Implanon for some time and suddenly experience nausea or vomiting, it’s essential to consider the possibility of pregnancy.
Breast Changes: Pregnancy can cause changes in the breast, such as swollen or tender nipples, a feeling of fullness, or changes in the size of the breasts. These changes can also occur with expired Implanon.
Fatigue and Lethargy: Hormonal changes can cause pregnancy fatigue, which can also occur with expired Implanon. If you’re feeling tired or lethargic and haven’t experienced these symptoms before, it’s important to take a pregnancy test to rule out the possibility of pregnancy.
Abdominal Pain and Cramping: Cramping can be an early sign of pregnancy with expired Implanon, which can be mistaken for menstrual cramps. If you’re experiencing abdominal pain or cramping and it’s not time for your period, it’s essential to take a pregnancy test.
What to Do If You Suspect Pregnancy with Expired Implanon
If you think you might be pregnant with expired Implanon, it’s essential to talk to your doctor right away. Your doctor can perform a pregnancy test and discuss your options, including the removal of the Implanon. If you don’t want to get pregnant, it’s important to use additional forms of birth control until you can have the Implanon removed or replaced.
Conclusion
In conclusion, using expired Implanon can increase the risk of pregnancy. Therefore, it’s essential to keep track of its expiration date and to talk to your doctor if you think you might be pregnant. Symptoms of pregnancy with expired Implanon include changes in menstrual behavior, nausea and vomiting, breast changes, fatigue and lethargy, and abdominal pain and cramping. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to take a pregnancy test and talk to your doctor about your options. Remember, it’s always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to reproductive health.
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