Rockville LARC Options: Choose What’s Right for You
Rockville LARC Options: IUD vs. Nexplanon Implant—Which Is Best?
If you’re looking for low-maintenance, highly effective birth control in Rockville, long-acting reversible contraception (LARC) might be your best bet. At Metropolitan Family Planning Clinic, we offer both intrauterine devices (IUDs) and the Nexplanon arm implant—two of the most trusted and effective LARC methods available today.
But how do you know which one is right for you?
Here’s a breakdown of the differences between IUDs and Nexplanon to help you make an informed choice.
Rockville LARC Options: What Is an IUD?
An intrauterine device (IUD) is a small, T-shaped device inserted into the uterus by a provider. It prevents pregnancy by either releasing hormones (like Mirena, Liletta, or Skyla) or using copper (like ParaGard) to stop sperm from fertilizing an egg.
Benefits of IUDs:
- Long-lasting: 3 to 12 years, depending on the brand
- Low maintenance: Once it’s in, you’re covered
- Reversible: Fertility returns quickly once removed
- Multiple options: Hormonal and non-hormonal choices available
Considerations:
- Must be inserted in-office by a trained provider
- Some users may experience cramping or irregular bleeding after placement
- ParaGard may cause heavier periods for some patients
Rockville LARC Options: What Is Nexplanon?
Nexplanon is a thin, matchstick-sized implant inserted just under the skin of your upper arm. It works by slowly releasing progestin to prevent ovulation and thicken cervical mucus, blocking sperm.
Benefits of Nexplanon:
- Effective for up to 3 years
- Discrete and easy to forget about
- No daily pills or monthly maintenance
- Can be removed at any time if you want to get pregnant
Considerations:
- Requires a simple, in-office procedure for placement and removal
- May cause changes in menstrual bleeding, such as spotting or more extended periods
- Not suitable for people sensitive to hormonal methods
Rockville LARC Options: Which One Is Right for You?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but here’s how to think about it:
| Factor | IUD | Nexplanon |
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 3–12 years | 3 years |
| Hormonal? | Yes or No | Yes only |
| Placement | In uterus | Under the skin (arm) |
| STI Protection | No | No |
| Ideal For | People who want long-term, low-hormone or non-hormonal options | People who want something simple and hidden from view |
If you’re looking for a non-hormonal option, ParaGard is your go-to IUD. If you prefer a method with less involvement and no need for internal insertion, Nexplanon is a great choice.
LARC Options at MFPC Rockville
At Metropolitan Family Planning Clinic in Rockville, we offer:
- Hormonal IUDs: Mirena, Liletta, and Skyla
- Non-hormonal IUD: ParaGard
- Nexplanon implant
Our providers will talk through your health history, goals, and preferences to help you decide what works best. Every option is safe, effective, and fully reversible.
We also offer guidance on other contraceptive choices, from short-term methods to emergency contraception.
Ready to Choose Your LARC Method?
If you’re considering long-acting birth control in Rockville, we’re here to help. Our expert team makes the process easy, respectful, and focused on your needs. Contact MFPC today to schedule your appointment.
Explore more on this topic at our blog hub for patient-centered insights on birth control, abortion care, and reproductive health.
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