Long-acting reversible contraception (LARC) is one of the most effective ways to prevent pregnancy, and for many women it also helps with heavy periods, cramping, or cycle-related symptoms. If you’re weighing an IUD or a Nexplanon implant, it helps to know what the process actually looks like in a primary care setting before you book the appointment.
At River Family Health in Boise, IUD and Nexplanon services are part of women’s health care alongside annual wellness visits, contraceptive counseling, and general primary care. That means the same provider who knows your history can help you think through your options, place the device, and follow up over the years you have it.
Understanding Your Options
IUDs and Nexplanon are different tools that solve a similar problem. Both are highly effective and reversible, but they work in different ways and last for different lengths of time.
- Hormonal IUDs release a small amount of progestin locally in the uterus. Many people notice lighter periods over time. Depending on the brand, they can stay in place for several years.
- Non-hormonal (copper) IUDs use copper instead of hormones and can remain in place for up to a decade. Periods sometimes become heavier, especially at first.
- Nexplanon is a small, flexible rod placed under the skin of the upper arm. It releases progestin and typically lasts about three years.
None of these are the “right” choice for everyone. The best option depends on your medical history, your cycle, whether you prefer hormonal or non-hormonal methods, and what you want your future family planning to look like.
The Consult Visit
Most people start with a consultation rather than jumping straight to placement. During that visit, expect a conversation about:
- Your menstrual history and any period-related symptoms
- Past pregnancies, births, or contraceptive experiences
- Current medications, health conditions, and family history
- Your goals — pregnancy prevention, cycle management, or both
- What to expect during placement, including discomfort and side effects
This is also the time to ask questions. There is no such thing as a small question when you’re deciding what to put in your body for the next few years.
What Placement Is Actually Like
IUD placement is done in the clinic and usually takes just a few minutes, though the full appointment is longer to allow for preparation and recovery time. Many women experience cramping during and shortly after placement. Your provider will talk with you ahead of time about pain management options and what to expect afterward.
Nexplanon placement is a quick in-office procedure done with local numbing medication in the upper arm. Most people feel pressure but not sharp pain, and the small insertion site is covered with a bandage for a few days.
You’ll get clear instructions on activity, bleeding patterns to expect, and warning signs that should prompt a call back to the clinic.
Follow-Up and Removal
A follow-up visit a few weeks after placement gives you a chance to check in about any side effects, confirm placement, and troubleshoot early. After that, most people simply continue with their annual wellness visits.
When you’re ready for removal — whether because your device has reached the end of its lifespan, you’re planning a pregnancy, or you’d like to try something different — that can also be done in the office.
Bringing It Into Primary Care
Having contraception managed within your primary care relationship means fewer handoffs and a provider who understands the rest of your health picture. If you’re in Boise or the Treasure Valley and want to talk through whether an IUD or Nexplanon might fit your life, a women’s health visit is a good place to start.
