Hi, just wondering if anyone has experienced depression/ mood swings/ anxiety after removal of the implanon/nexplanon? I have had the implanon in for almost 10 years and had it removed on the 3rd June (2 months ago) and my hormones seem to have gone crazy.
I have had one period on the 30th June which was very light and only lasted 2-3 days..
Since the removal I have been moody, upset-depressed, and cry a lot. I don't know what is going on. I have severe anxiety which is leaving my scalp flakey and red due to scratching when I'm nervous.
Has anyone else experienced this? Any advice please ?
Implanon - Depression after removal?
Question posted by Veenus1 on 23 July 2016
Last updated on 20 March 2022 by Anonymous
The information on this page reflects personal experiences shared by our community members. It is not reviewed for medical accuracy and should not replace professional medical advice.
13 Answers
Inactive
19 March 2022
With you it was the Implanon, with me, back in 1978, I had my tubes tied. I couldn't handle another abortion. Every individual is different when it comes reactions, may it be surgery or withdrawal side effects. It can be physical or mental adverse reaction. The question is, how long do we have to endure.
Try this for depression and see it can help you. Vitamin(s) B-12, Evening Primrose, Gingko Biloba, L-Theanine, Energy and GABA in the morning, for the evening Ginseng, Valerian Ashwagandha, chamomile tea.
These vitamins are known for eliminating stress, panic, fear, mood swings and anxiety.
Hdvcactus
18 March 2022
I just got mine removed and I definitely feel depressed
Jami2019
28 July 2019
I am both glad and scared reading this post. I had the implant 4 times, but the first two Were implanon (same hormone but without the added radiopaque) in 2008 & 2011. In 2014 I received the nexplanon (same as implanon but with the added radiopaque so that it can be seen under X-ray). I never had any issues until I received NEXPLANON in 2014, I took it out after a few months and got pregnant and had my daughter in 2015. I thought I’d try it again so I did after my daughter was born... I gained over 30lbs, had dizziness ,severe anxiety, nausea everyday, my hair fell out so much I could no longer put it in a pony tail but I kept it in for the full 3 years and got another one in April of this year. It started giving me chest pains and palpitations along with anxiety, dizziness ,headaches, and flu-like symptoms; fever, weakness, fatigue & I never had a period which I felt was so unnatural. Because of the chest pain & palpitations I went to the ER.
They did EKG to check my heart and blood work and X-ray but everything was normal. I had my nexplanon removed 10 days ago because I couldn’t take it anymore. The first few days I was nauseous all day and now i continue to have chest pains, palpitations and severe anxiety. I’m so scared because I don’t want anything to be wrong with my heart. I thought removing the nexplanon would help me feel better but I’m scared. I want this anxiety and palpitations to go away because it makes me want to sit still all day and try to relax but I have 3 kids to take care of. Has anyone else had these symptoms after removal? How long does it take to feel better?
Stardust l
28 July 2019
Hey Jami,
Sorry to hear you're going through this hell too. I experienced the same symptoms as you when I had the implant removed. Personally I believe that a hormone imbalance or sensitivity causes these symptoms but unfortunately doctors don't seem open to exploring that (in my case anyway).
I'm 2 years on. I'd say my symptoms have got better in some ways, although I still have many symptomatic days of everything you listed, my symptoms definitely flare up worse because of hormone fluctuations around ovulation and my period. I think things have got better for me because I've learned to finally accept my symptoms although they have altered my life in a very dramatic way and its been a long journey. I was fighting the situation for a very long time. Having a health support worker and occupational therapist has got me through. Having sympathetic people around you that understand your situation will make the ride more bearable.
It must be super difficult going through this with 3 kids! I just have a daughter but I really struggled. Please get as much support as you can while you adjust to all this.
I've found the propranolol has helped with the palpitations, anxiety and migraines. It's been a lifesaver (I take it as and when needed). Everyone is different though when it comes to meds so bare that in mind.
Your journey may be completely different from mine but I hope that although it's not great to hear that I'm still symptomatic, things have improved compared to when it first began, I've been able to mentally adjust. At first my life was turned completely upside down and I felt that I would never adjust. Things will get better.
If you ever need a chat, I'm here.
athleticfeline
28 July 2019
I’m so sorry you are going through this, when I had mine out a year ago I had the exact same symptoms and still dealing with them today especially the chest pains and anxiety. Have you considered going to a naturopath? I had one and she recommended me several supplements and practices to deal with anxiety. We also had my hormones tested to see what was going on there. I was low on Progesterone and high in Estrogen. Also had to cut out caffeine, alcohol, processed foods and uptake veggies, water and working out more. Massive hugs! Let me know if you have further questions. I’m no expert but I can talk about my experience.
DagsMija
27 July 2019
I had my nexplanon removed 2 days ago after back to back implanon/nexplanon use of over 8 years. My anxiety is through the roof, my heart rate is elevated and I’m just overall in a terrible space. I started taking a low dose birth control pill since the day of the removal and I’m hoping all of these side effects taper off soon. I feel awful. When should my hormones go back to normal after such an extended use of nexplanon?
athleticfeline
29 July 2019
I’m so sorry you are going through this, when I had mine out a year ago I had the exact same symptoms and still dealing with them today especially the chest pains and anxiety. Have you considered going to a naturopath? I had one and she recommended me several supplements and practices to deal with anxiety. We also had my hormones tested to see what was going on there. I was low on Progesterone and high in Estrogen. Also had to cut out caffeine, alcohol, processed foods and uptake veggies, water and working out more. Massive hugs! Let me know if you have further questions. I’m no expert but I can talk about my experience.
Janet13
28 March 2019
I had my Nexplanon removed one month ago, I’ve been feeling lonely and a depressed. I didn’t know what was going on I tought it was just a phase because I’m young and I stress about life etc. But it isn’t going away, I don’t feel like going out for a walk or doing anything at all. I just want to be left alone and do nothing. I am so tired most of the time. I get up in the morning I eat and I want to take myself back to bed with the shades closed. I don’t know what to do. I been on birth control for 7 years, everything was fine until I got it removed. The symptoms didn’t start right away but now I feel SO LAZY I have no energy.
athleticfeline
29 May 2019
Sorry to hear you are going through this, did you ever have your hormones tested? And are you currently taking any supplements to help with the symptoms?
crackedvessel
26 March 2019
I am 57 years old. Got the Implanon/Nexplanon initially about 15 years ago, and it was a lifesaver. Ended decades of very very harsh cycles preceded by deep PMDD. On the implant I had no periods at all, and it was the best thing that ever happened to me. I had my last one inserted at age 49, and my doctor insisted I have it removed (I am 57 now, so it was several years overdue for removal). They said they couldn't put another one in after 55, which is probably why I resisted having it out for so long. I was terrified of going headlong into menopause, but the theory was, since 5 years is the longest they're supposed to be effective, I was probably not getting any hormones from it anyway. Well, had it out 3 days ago and I am insane. No bleeding, but plenty of cramping and absolute mental breakdown.
Now I know why I was so apprehensive ot have it removed - but I also now know it was still delivering hormones which they say is dangerous at my age. Give me that danger over this one - I can't function! I'm afraid of what is going to happen to me now. I feel like this will continue forever.
Stardust l
26 March 2019
Hi there, I just wanted to say hang in there! I'm 27 and had the implant out 2 years ago. The implant was the best thing for me too, it did everything you described. I had it out nievely thinking that I could go the natural route & feel better. How wrong was I! I sometimes want to have it back in cos it levelled me out so well but I know how much a mess I was coming off it! So I can understand what you are going through right now. All I can say is surround yourself with people who can support you. Maybe seek out some sort of hrt if you really cannot cope. Be kind to yourself. I never thought I would improve, I thought I was going to be trapped in that hell forever but know that you will get better with time.
Larkspur12
19 Jan 2019
Its the implant that has caused it! Please don’t be tempted to have it back in, you’ll only encounter the same issues at a later date. Learn to track your cycle using a basal thermometer, it will help you to understand what’s going on with your cycle. I’ve had a terrible time over the last few months but it does get better once your hormones rebalance. The implant can very often cause high estrogen and low progesterone which cause a lot of the symptoms your are all experiencing. Eat lots of greens and drink lots of water to help your liver to flush out the excess estogen, cut out sugar, caffeine and alcohol (they make it worse).
Josie87
6 Jan 2019
I'm so glad there are posts like this to help me!! I have been 're directed here thank you so much for that recommendation, my implanon has ran out nov 18 and I have been down, feeling hot, sore breasts, swollen glands and very bad anxiety that I put it down to anxiety and something being wrong with me that I had no idea it could be hormonal as I went to GP about anxiety and didn't think to mention the implanon and they of course have put me on anti depressants meds to help as I was so desperate! I feel all over the place and I need to get in with my GP this week to check if it's hormonal which after reading the comments here I think it could be! Any reassurance or recommendations on what you tried or if you got on a contraceptive pill after implant as I'm hoping GP will help buy sometimes they just rush you in or put you on meds! I really want to sort this out as I want my life back! Please help :)
Whitney4540
3 Jan 2019
Oh my gosh! I have been going through this and I didn’t know why. I have horrible anxiety strong chest pains crying for no reason. I got mines taken out back in April 2017 and I am still having these issues January 2019. Can it last this long???
I’ve had the implant for 4 years.
Stardust l
11 Jan 2019
Hi Whitney I have been exactly the same. I got mine removed October 2017 and I'm no better January 2019! Id say I'm doing a bit better than when I first had it removed but my anxiety is a lot worse and I have frequent migraines, mood swings etc... I had the implant for 6 years. I'm wondering whether going back on it will end all this. I seemed fine while I was on it. Since getting it removed I've completely lost myself! We should keep in touch. It helps to be in contact with people that understand!
MapleTree93
13 Jan 2019
I've been having this as well. I had my implant removed in February 2018 and I had a few issues with my moods and cramping but it's only in the last 2 months I've had severe anxiety, chest, jaw and throat tightness. Crying episodes for no reason. I have had anxiety previously and had gone on medication and saw a psychologist and felt so much better and now it seems it's happening all over again but worse. I never had the tightening chest or other physical systems with anxiety before. It's so terrible.
Fifitrixibel
26 Jan 2018
I had my implant out on the 10th Jan. I have felt nauseated, anxiety, palpitations and breast pain since then. I have been to the doctors but never connected my symptoms to the removal until searching online. How long does it take to feel better I feel like I am going mad!
Annetteblackcat
10 April 2018
I feel crazy had mine for 2 1/2 years and just would not stop bleeding and weight gain. Now I am sad and depressed, don't feel like eating and the anxiety make me sick. In have not had a period for 7 weeks and I am praying for it. My stomach hurts and I feel like my head in in the clouds. Just moved hours from my old doctor and need to find a new one in the area. This helped me know I'm not crazy..
cloomes
20 June 2018
I had my implant removed 3 weeks today. I've felt so depressed and can't stop thinking about death, I'm scared, I don't want to die and I feel like I'm going to?
I've had the worst anxiety and been getting it constantly all day at work, I keep getting sharp pains in my chest ,my throat feels tight and my ears feel blocked. I've been getting horrible headaches aswell, I feel like this is never going to go away, when can I feel normal again? I got the implanon removed because it gave me anxiety anyway
Fifitrixibel
20 June 2018
It's now 6 months since I had it put and I feel so much better without it. The hormones took ages to leave my system and I didn't have a period for 2 months. My periods are every 3 weeks which is more frequent than before. But am also of perimenopause age so it could be that. I still get palpitations every so often but nothing like before.
Sendemtothemoon
31 Aug 2018
Do you recall how long it took to get rid of all of this? I had mine removed on Monday. I have been crying and having irrational thoughts since Tuesday. I literally spent 30 minutes in the shower last night crying into a wash cloth so my husband wouldn't hear me. I've been in my office all day crying here and there... over literally nothing. My non hormonal brain knows I'm being ridiculous but hormonal brain will not stop. I feel like I'm insane and I don't know what to do
Larkspur12
12 Nov 2018
I’ve been so glad to find this post and all of the replies. I had my implant out 4 weeks ago and I feel like I’m going mad. How do you all feel by now? I’m desperate to have some hope that this will not last forever x
Sendemtothemoon
12 Nov 2018
It wore after. Maybe a month or so even out. But I'm pretty sure I just cried ever day for a month. My husband thought I was having a nervous breakdown. I'm sure I looked mental. But, everything is evened out and I feel 100% normal. With that said, I've had mine out almost 3 months and my sex drive has not returned, just an fyi for anyone that has experience this as well. We've started trying for a baby, so this makes it a bit more work to try.
cloomes
12 Nov 2018
@Larkspur12 I had mine out around 4-5 months ago now and I literally feel like myself again! My anxiety has completely stopped and my energy levels have completely increased, as well as being able to lose weight now, it does get better! :)
Larkspur12
12 Nov 2018
Thank you so much for replying. You can’t believe how happy I am to hear that. My poor family are worried sick about me, I’m a crying wreck most of the time. It’s been strange I had two implants, I was good on the first one but had such a bad time 12months into the 2nd one. I’ve been on some form of hormonal contraception since I was 16, I’m now 40. I had a short break from the pill while I had my two children and went on the implant 4 years ago. So I’m desperate not to go back on it. I want my life back. Again thank you for sharing your experiences xx
Larkspur12
29 Nov 2018
Sorry to resurrect This post again, but I would like some help. I’m really struggling, is there anything that can help me through this? I feel so ill all the time, so tired, bladder pain but not UTI, a constant fluttery feeling inside, up one day and so down the next. Advice, reassurance, anything that may help me get through this. Thank you xx
DesignerGoddess
24 Dec 2017
I’m so glad you posted your message. It has reassured me that I’m not alone. Its Christmas Eve and I phoned my stepdad to wish him Merry Christmas and instead I cried like a baby. I had my Implanon removed 7 days ago - I am so depressed and my behaviour is irrational. I really hope this feeling is temporary or I will alienate all my friends and family. How are you feeling now and when did things improve?
chuck1957
24 July 2016
Veenus1; Just to show you these effects can happen to woman after having this in your system, Or right after having it removed and you figure you have had it for 10 years so it's possible to have these severe problems more so after removal. Sounds like your having a severe hormone problem with this being removed so it really might be best if you check with your doctor. Now just look at these effects. And try not to worry the hormones really can mess around with you. okay look these over.
(((( any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:
More common •Back pain
•blemishes on the skin, pimples
•body aches or pain
•crying
•depersonalization
•discouragement
•dysphoria
•ear congestion
•euphoria
•feeling sad or empty
•hoarseness
•increased clear or white vaginal discharge
•increased weight
•irregular bleeding cycle
•irritability
•itching of the vagina or genital area
•light vaginal bleeding between regular menstrual periods
•loss of interest or pleasure
•loss of voice
•mental depression
•nasal congestion
•pain, cramps, or heavy menstrual bleeding
•pain during sexual intercourse
•pain or tenderness around the eyes and cheekbones
•paranoia
•quick to react or overreact emotionally
•rapidly changing moods
•stomach pain
•tender, swollen glands in the neck
•thick, white vaginal discharge with no odor or with a mild odor
•trouble concentrating
•voice changes
Less common •Abdominal or stomach bloating and cramping
•abnormal ejaculation
•abnormal or decreased touch sensation
•acid or sour stomach
•belching
•bone pain
•burning feeling in the chest or stomach
•decreased interest in sexual intercourse
•difficulty having a bowel movement (stool)
•difficulty with moving
•dull ache or feeling of pressure or heaviness in the legs
•earache, redness, or swelling in the ear
•excess air or gas in the stomach or intestines
•feeling of vaginal pressure
•feeling of warmth
•hair loss or thinning of the hair
•heartburn
•inability to have or keep an erection
•increased appetite
•increased hair growth on the forehead, back, arms, and legs
•indigestion
•itching skin near damaged veins
•lack or loss of strength
•loss in sexual ability, desire, drive, or performance
•muscle cramping or stiffness
•passing gas
•pelvic pain
•redness of the face, neck, arms, and occasionally upper chest
•sleepiness or unusual drowsiness
•sleeplessness
•sneezing
•stomach upset or pain
•stuffy nose
•swollen joints
•tenderness in the stomach area
•unable to sleep
•vaginal burning or pain
•weight loss
Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your healthcare professional.
Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects ))))) Okay hope this helps but if it's just too much to handle call your doctor Monday they should have told you more about the removal after such a long period of using this. Chuck1957..
chuck1957
24 July 2016
Good morning Veenus1; Yes these are all common, Everyone is different on how they react to this unit. Your hormones are all over the place, It well get better. Some get this even just having it put in and others have a lot of problems after it was removed. Now remember you also were using it for 10 years so. From what I have read and heard from many other woman this is for sure the Implanon. Please try your best to know this and stop scratching etc. But without a dough this is the problem. If your still having problems after your first real period. Go back to your doctor and get put on maybe a small dose of hormone and wean off. Or something to help you deal with this medication. Your not going nuts this is very common. And most it's a few weeks, to at most through a true menstrual cycle. Now if it's just to much get yourself into the doctor right away. But please calm down you well be okay.
If you have not taken Benadryl before you might check with the doctor it is sold over the counter well help with the itching and also calm you down some. You well find it at the store in the cold or allergy section. Just know it can make you drowsy if you can't handle it get in next week and tell your doctor what is going on. To help get you through this. good luck. But your going to be fine soon.
Veenus1
25 July 2016
Thank you for your posts chuck1957.
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