Depo Provera vs Nexplanon – Comparing Birth Control Treatments

According to a report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 65% of women aged 15-49 in the United States were using some form of contraception between 2017 and 2019. This underscores the importance of understanding various contraceptive options to make informed choices​​​.

Depo Provera and Nexplanon are two highly regarded contraceptive methods. Depo Provera is an injectable form of birth control that protects for three months per dose. Nexplanon, on the other hand, is a small, flexible rod implanted under the skin, offering up to three years of continuous contraception. Each method has unique benefits tailored to different lifestyle needs and preferences.

In this article, we will compare Depo Provera and Nexplanon, examining their effectiveness, side effects, and overall user experience to help you make an informed decision about your birth control options.

Key Takeaways

• Depo Provera and Nexplanon are two different contraceptive methods with distinct administration techniques.
• Depo Provera is an injectable contraceptive, while Nexplanon is a small rod that is inserted under the skin.
• Both methods are highly effective in preventing pregnancy, but they have different duration of effectiveness.
• Practical considerations such as patient preferences, side effects, and cost are essential factors in choosing the correct contraceptive method.
• Medical professionals can tailor contraceptive methods to patient needs and lifestyle preferences.

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Understanding Depo Provera and Nexplanon

Depo Provera works by delivering a synthetic form of the hormone progestin (medroxyprogesterone acetate) into the body, which prevents ovulation, thickens cervical mucus to block sperm, and thins the uterine lining to prevent implantation.

On the other hand, Nexplanon releases a low, steady dose of etonogestrel, another synthetic progestin, which similarly inhibits ovulation, thickens cervical mucus, and thins the endometrial lining.

Administration Techniques

Depo Provera and Nexplanon offer health professionals two distinct administration techniques for managing patient contraception needs. Depo Provera requires an intramuscular injection every 13 weeks, while Nexplanon is a hormonal implant that must be inserted under the skin and lasts for up to three years.

Depo Provera is administered via an intramuscular injection every three months, typically in the buttocks or upper arm. A visit to a healthcare provider for each dose is required, especially since the provider must follow Depo Provera’s prescribing information to ensure maximum effectiveness.

Meanwhile, Nexplanon is a small, flexible rod inserted under the skin of the upper arm. A healthcare provider performs a minor surgical procedure to implant the rod, which remains effective for up to three years.​

Duration of Effectiveness

Depo Provera provides contraceptive protection for three months per injection, requiring quarterly visits to a healthcare provider to maintain its effectiveness. Conversely, Nexplanon offers a long-term solution, providing up to three years of continuous contraception with a single implant. This longer duration makes it a convenient option for those seeking long-term but reversible contraception

Efficacy and Safety Profiles

Clinical trials have shown that both Depo Provera and Nexplanon are highly effective forms of contraception. Depo Provera boasts an efficacy rate of over 99% with perfect use, translating to less than one pregnancy per 100 women per year of use. However, with typical use, the effectiveness drops slightly due to missed or late injections, resulting in about six pregnancies per 100 women per year.

Nexoplanon also has a similar high efficacy rate of 99%, making it one of the most reliable contraceptive methods available. Its continuous hormone release eliminates the potential for user error that can occur with other contraceptive methods.

Expert Reviews on Efficacy and Safety

Experts generally consider both Depo Provera and Nexplanon to be safe and effective options for contraception. However, to maintain Depo Provera’s effectiveness, it is essential for patients to adhere to the recommended injection schedule.

At the same time, user ratings and reviews indicate that Nexplanon has a favorable side-effect profile, with abnormal menstruation being the most commonly reported issue. Despite individual experiences being varying, Nexplanon is a reliable choice.

Practical Considerations

Choosing between Depo Provera and Nexplanon involves considering various factors. Patients often base their decisions on lifestyle, medical history, and personal preferences.

Some patients prefer the convenience of an implant like Nexplanon, which lasts up to three years and doesn’t require frequent doctor visits. Others might opt for the injectable Depo Provera every 13 weeks because they are uncomfortable with the idea of having a device inserted into their body.

However, patients looking for a longer-term birth control method without daily attention might lean towards Nexplanon due to its three-year effectiveness. In contrast, those uncertain about long-term hormone use may choose Depo Provera for its shorter commitment.

Both methods have potential side effects that can influence patient choice. Those concerned about specific side effects they’ve experienced or heard about from others may strongly prefer one method over another based on these concerns.

The financial aspect also plays a significant role in decision-making. Some patients might find that their insurance covers one option better than the other, or they may consider the overall cost over time, including doctor’s visits for injections versus the one-time insertion of an implant.

Side Effects and Common Concerns

Both Depo Provera and Nexplanon have side effects that patients should consider before choosing a contraceptive method.

• Depo Provera: Weight gain, menstrual irregularities, headaches, and mood changes. Some users may experience decreased bone mineral density with long-term use, which usually reverses after discontinuation. Patients also often worry about weight gain and menstrual changes. Regular follow-ups with a healthcare provider are recommended to monitor bone health and manage any side effects.
• Nexplanon: Patients may often complain about irregular bleeding in the first few months. Other side effects also include weight gain and mood swings. Some patients may also be concerned about having a foreign body implanted under their skin.

Cost Comparison and Insurance Coverage

Without insurance, Depo Provera costs typically between $64.92 and $67.36 per 1 mL injection. However, insurance coverage can significantly impact the overall cost, so it’s essential to check with your provider to determine your out-of-pocket expenses.

The list price for one Nexplanon rod is $1,092.48. However, if you’re on Medicaid or have private insurance, the implant might be free or very affordable. Some family planning clinics also offer discounts or payment plans for Nexplanon.

Choosing the Right Contraceptive Method

When advising patients on choosing between Depo Provera and Nexplanon, medical professionals should consider individual lifestyle needs, medical history, and preferences. Depo Provera is administered every 13 weeks, offering flexibility for patients who prefer not to commit to a long-term device. However, it requires regular clinic visits, which may not suit those with busy schedules or limited access to healthcare facilities. 

Nexplanon provides up to three years of continuous contraception, making it ideal for patients seeking a low-maintenance, long-term solution. Its insertion and removal are quick procedures, but the idea of having a device implanted may be off-putting to some. Nexplanon is known for its high efficacy and convenience, but side effects such as irregular bleeding and insertion site discomfort should be addressed.

Tailoring contraceptive methods to patient needs involves thorough consultation and education. Discussing each option’s effectiveness, side effects, and lifestyle impact helps patients make informed decisions. Ensuring patients know insurance coverage and potential out-of-pocket costs can also be crucial in their decision-making process. 

Ultimately, the right contraceptive method should align with the patient’s health status, lifestyle, and reproductive goals, ensuring both efficacy and satisfaction.​

Conclusion

Tailoring contraceptive methods to patient needs highlights the importance of considering various factors when choosing between Depo Provera and Nexplanon. Both are highly effective hormonal birth control options: Depo Provera is an injectable method administered every 13 weeks, while Nexplanon is a progestin implant lasting up to three years.

For medical professionals, guiding patients in this decision involves considering their lifestyle preferences, cost concerns, and potential medication interactions. Patients may prioritize the convenience of Nexplanon’s long-term protection without frequent updates or prefer the familiarity and periodicity of Depo Provera injections.

FAQs

1. What are Depo Provera and Nexplanon?

Depo Provera and Nexplanon are two types of birth control treatments. Both work to prevent pregnancy, but they do so in different ways.

2. How does Depo Provera compare to Nexplanon?

Depo Provera and Nexplanon have pros and cons regarding effectiveness, side effects, cost, and ease of use. Before deciding, each individual needs to discuss these factors with a healthcare professional.

3. Are there any significant side effects associated with either treatment?

Yes, both Depo Provera and Nexplanon can cause potential side effects such as changes in menstrual cycles, weight gain, or mood swings, among others. Before starting any new treatment, consult your doctor about possible side effects.

4. Can I switch from one birth control method to another easily?

Switching between birth control methods like Depo Provera and Nexplanon should be done under the guidance of a healthcare provider who can provide personalized advice based on your health history.

References

Daniels K, Abma JC. Current contraceptive status among women aged 15–49 : United States, 2017–2019. Published October 1, 2020. https://stacks.cdc.gov/view/cdc/95692

Planned Parenthood. (n.d.). How effective is the birth control shot? Retrieved July 9, 2024, from https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/birth-control/birth-control-shot/how-effective-is-the-birth-control-shot

Drugs.com. (n.d.). Depo Provera vs. Nexplanon. Retrieved July 9, 2024, from https://www.drugs.com/compare/Depo Provera-vs-nexplanon