What is the 3 year long birth control? A Comprehensive Guide

Over 99% effective in preventing pregnancy, long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARCs) are some of the most reliable forms of birth control available. If you are exploring these options, you might be asking: what is the 3 year long birth control available, and how do they work?

Quick Summary

The primary 3-year birth control methods are the Nexplanon implant and the Skyla IUD. These highly effective, progestin-releasing contraceptives are placed by a healthcare provider and can be removed at any time.

Key Points

• Nexplanon is a 3-year implant: A small, flexible rod inserted under the skin of the upper arm that releases progestin.

• Skyla is a 3-year IUD: A small, T-shaped device inserted into the uterus, releasing a lower dose of progestin.

• Both are highly effective: Both Nexplanon and Skyla boast over 99% effectiveness at preventing pregnancy, largely due to minimal user error.

• Fertility returns quickly: Upon removal by a healthcare provider, fertility can return to normal levels almost immediately.

• Side effects vary: Nexplanon users often experience irregular bleeding, while Skyla can cause heavier periods initially but may lead to lighter or absent periods over time.

• Neither protects against STIs: It is important to note that neither method offers protection against sexually transmitted infections.

For many people, the thought of daily pills or monthly applications for birth control can be a hassle. That's where long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARCs) come in, offering years of reliable protection against pregnancy with minimal effort after insertion. When considering a long-term birth control solution, it's helpful to understand the specifics of each option, particularly those with a 3-year lifespan. The two most common options in this category are the Nexplanon implant and the Skyla intrauterine device (IUD). This guide will provide a detailed overview of what each is, how they function, and the potential benefits and side effects.

Nexplanon: The 3-Year Arm Implant

What it is and how it works

Nexplanon is a small, flexible, matchstick-sized plastic rod that a healthcare provider inserts just under the skin on the inner side of your non-dominant upper arm. It is a long-acting contraceptive that prevents pregnancy for up to three years. The implant works by continuously releasing a low, steady dose of the hormone etonogestrel, a type of progestin, into your bloodstream. This hormone prevents pregnancy in several ways:

• Preventing ovulation: It primarily works by stopping the release of an egg from your ovary. Without an egg, fertilization cannot occur.
• Thickening cervical mucus: The hormone thickens the mucus in your cervix, making it difficult for sperm to travel through and reach an egg.
• Thinning the uterine lining: It also changes the lining of your uterus, making it difficult for a fertilized egg to implant.

Insertion and removal

Both insertion and removal of the Nexplanon implant are performed by a trained healthcare professional during a short, in-office visit. The procedure involves using a local anesthetic to numb the area, so you should feel minimal to no discomfort. For removal, a small incision is made to gently pull the implant out. If you desire continued contraception, a new implant can be inserted at the same time. One of the significant advantages of Nexplanon is its quick reversibility. Once the implant is removed, your fertility can return almost immediately.

Potential benefits and side effects

Besides its high effectiveness and long-lasting nature, Nexplanon offers several other benefits, such as convenience and ease of use, as it eliminates the need for daily pills. However, some individuals experience side effects, particularly changes in their menstrual bleeding patterns. These changes can range from irregular bleeding and spotting to lighter periods or no periods at all. Other potential side effects include:

• Headaches
• Mood swings and depressed mood
• Weight gain
• Acne
• Breast tenderness

Skyla: The 3-Year Hormonal IUD

What it is and how it works

Skyla is a small, T-shaped, plastic intrauterine device (IUD) that a healthcare provider inserts into your uterus. It is FDA-approved to prevent pregnancy for up to three years. Like the Nexplanon implant, Skyla releases a small amount of the hormone progestin (levonorgestrel) directly into the uterus. It works by:

• Thickening cervical mucus: The progestin thickens the cervical mucus, creating a barrier that makes it difficult for sperm to enter the uterus.
• Thining the uterine lining: It thins the lining of the uterus, making it difficult for a fertilized egg to implant.
• Inhibiting sperm motility: The hormone also inhibits sperm movement and survival within the uterus.

Insertion and removal

Insertion of the Skyla IUD is a brief, in-office procedure performed by a healthcare provider. While some people experience cramping or discomfort during the process, pain management options can be discussed with your provider. After insertion, you should return for a follow-up visit to ensure correct placement. Removal is generally a simpler procedure, and once it is removed, your normal menstrual cycle and fertility should return quickly.

Potential benefits and side effects

For many, Skyla provides the benefit of lighter, shorter periods over time, and some users may even stop having their periods entirely. However, like other hormonal contraceptives, it has potential side effects. The most common side effect is irregular bleeding or spotting, particularly during the first few months after insertion. Other potential side effects include:

• Ovarian cysts, which are usually harmless and resolve on their own
• Headaches
• Acne

Comparing the 3-Year Options: Implant vs. IUD

When deciding between Nexplanon and Skyla, considering key differences can help you determine the best fit for your body and lifestyle.

Feature	Nexplanon Implant	Skyla IUD
Placement Location	Under the skin of the upper arm	Inside the uterus
Hormone	Etonogestrel (a type of progestin)	Levonorgestrel (a type of progestin)
Effectiveness Duration	3 years (studies suggest up to 5)	3 years
Typical Period Changes	May cause irregular bleeding, lighter periods, or no periods	May cause irregular bleeding initially, but often leads to lighter periods or amenorrhea over time
Common Side Effects	Irregular bleeding, headaches, mood swings, weight gain, acne	Irregular bleeding/spotting (initially), cramping, ovarian cysts
Insertion/Removal	Requires a small incision in the arm	Inserted and removed via the cervix
User Maintenance	Requires no daily or monthly action	Requires no daily or monthly action, though monthly thread checks are recommended

Choosing the Right 3-Year Contraceptive

Choosing the right contraceptive is a personal decision that should be based on your health, preferences, and lifestyle. If you prefer not to have a device in your uterus, the Nexplanon implant is an excellent choice. It offers the convenience of being completely hands-off once inserted. If your primary concern is managing heavy periods and you are comfortable with an intrauterine device, the Skyla IUD can be a great option, as many users experience lighter or no periods over time.

Before making a decision, it's important to discuss all options with a qualified healthcare provider. They can review your medical history and help you weigh the benefits and risks of each method to find the solution that best meets your needs.

Conclusion

For those seeking long-term, highly effective pregnancy prevention without daily effort, 3-year options like the Nexplanon implant and the Skyla IUD are excellent choices. As part of the broader category of LARCs, they provide reliable contraception and are easily reversible when desired. Understanding the specific mechanisms, insertion procedures, and potential side effects of each is crucial for making an informed decision. Always consult with a healthcare professional to ensure the chosen method is safe and appropriate for you.

Learn more about birth control options from trusted sources like the Planned Parenthood website.

Key Takeaways

• Nexplanon is a 3-year implant: This matchstick-sized rod is placed in the upper arm and releases progestin for up to three years.
• Skyla is a 3-year IUD: This small, T-shaped device is inserted into the uterus and also releases progestin.
• Both are highly effective: With over 99% effectiveness, both Nexplanon and Skyla are among the most reliable forms of birth control.
• Fertility returns quickly upon removal: Once removed by a healthcare provider, fertility can return to normal levels almost immediately with both methods.
• Side effects vary: Nexplanon is known for causing irregular bleeding, while Skyla may cause heavier periods initially but often results in lighter periods over time.

FAQs

• What are the main types of 3-year birth control? The two primary options are the Nexplanon arm implant and the Skyla hormonal intrauterine device (IUD).
• How does the Nexplanon implant work? The implant works by releasing a steady dose of the hormone etonogestrel, which prevents ovulation, thickens cervical mucus, and thins the uterine lining.
• Is a 3-year birth control method very effective? Yes, methods like Nexplanon and Skyla are over 99% effective at preventing pregnancy, making them highly reliable.
• What happens when the 3 years are up? The device must be removed by a healthcare provider. A new implant or IUD can be inserted at the same time if continued protection is desired.
• Can a 3-year birth control method be removed earlier? Yes, both the Nexplanon implant and Skyla IUD can be removed by a healthcare provider at any time before the 3-year mark.
• Do these methods protect against STIs? No, hormonal contraceptives like Nexplanon and Skyla do not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Condoms should be used for STI protection.
• What are common side effects of the Nexplanon implant? Common side effects include changes in menstrual bleeding, mood swings, weight gain, headaches, and acne.
• What are common side effects of the Skyla IUD? Initially, users may experience irregular bleeding and cramping. Over time, periods often become lighter or stop entirely. Ovarian cysts can also occur but usually resolve on their own.

Citations

• NEXPLANON® (etonogestrel implant) 68 mg Radiopaque ǀ Official Site. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.nexplanon.com/
• Cleveland Clinic. (n.d.). Birth Control Implant: How It Works, Side Effects & Benefits. Retrieved from https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/24564-contraceptive-implant
• KidsHealth. (n.d.). Implantable Contraception (for Teens). Retrieved from https://kidshealth.org/en/teens/contraception-implantable.html
• NEXPLANON® (etonogestrel implant) 68 mg Radiopaque ǀ Official Site. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.nexplanon.com/
• KidsHealth. (n.d.). Implantable Contraception (for Teens). Retrieved from https://kidshealth.org/en/teens/contraception-implantable.html
• Planned Parenthood. (n.d.). What are the side effects of the birth control implant? Retrieved from https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/birth-control/birth-control-implant-nexplanon/nexplanon-side-effects
• Skyla US Patient. (n.d.). Frequently Asked Questions. Retrieved from https://www.skyla-us.com/frequently-asked-questions
• Take Control Initiative. (n.d.). Skyla Factsheet. Retrieved from https://www.takecontrolinitiative.org/larc-options/skyla-factsheet/
• U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). (2017). SKYLA (levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system) Label. Retrieved from https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2017/203159s007lbl.pdf
• University of California, Berkeley. (2013). Skyla. Retrieved from https://uhs.berkeley.edu/sites/default/files/Skyla.pdf
• Health.gov. (2023). Choose the Right Birth Control. Retrieved from https://odphp.health.gov/myhealthfinder/healthy-living/sexual-health/choose-right-birth-control
• Planned Parenthood. (n.d.). What is the Effectiveness of the Birth Control Implant?. Retrieved from https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/birth-control/birth-control-implant-nexplanon/how-effective-is-the-birth-control-implant
• American Sexual Health Association (ASHA). (2025). Understanding LARC: Long-Acting Reversible Contraception. Retrieved from https://www.ashasexualhealth.org/understanding-larc/
• GoodRx. (2025). Birth Control Implants vs. IUDs: Which Is Better? Retrieved from https://www.goodrx.com/conditions/birth-control/whats-the-best-long-acting-birth-control

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main types of 3-year birth control?

The two primary options for 3-year birth control are the Nexplanon arm implant, which releases progestin, and the Skyla hormonal intrauterine device (IUD), which also releases progestin.

How does the Nexplanon implant work?

The Nexplanon implant releases a steady, low dose of the hormone etonogestrel. This prevents ovulation, thickens cervical mucus to block sperm, and thins the uterine lining to prevent implantation.

Is a 3-year birth control method very effective?

Yes, methods like Nexplanon and Skyla are over 99% effective at preventing pregnancy. Because they are inserted by a professional, there is no risk of user error, making them highly reliable.

What happens when the 3 years are up?

At the end of three years, the device must be removed by a healthcare provider. If continued contraception is desired, a new implant or IUD can be inserted during the same procedure.

Can a 3-year birth control method be removed earlier?

Yes, both the Nexplanon implant and Skyla IUD can be removed by a healthcare provider at any time before the 3-year mark. Your fertility will return quickly after removal.

Do these methods protect against STIs?

No, hormonal contraceptives like Nexplanon and Skyla do not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). For STI protection, it is necessary to use condoms.

What are common side effects of the Nexplanon implant?

Common side effects include changes in menstrual bleeding, such as irregular or absent periods. Other potential side effects are mood swings, weight gain, headaches, and acne.

What are common side effects of the Skyla IUD?

Common side effects for the Skyla IUD include irregular bleeding and cramping, especially in the first few months. Many users find their periods become lighter over time or stop entirely. Ovarian cysts can also occur, but typically resolve on their own.