The cost of a birth control implant can range from $0 to $1,300, depending on your insurance coverage, location, and eligibility for financial assistance.
How Much Does Birth Control Implant Cost? | Breaking Down Expenses and Insurance Coverage
I remember talking with friends about the various birth control options available, and the topic of cost often came up. The birth control implant, known for its long-lasting effectiveness and convenience, is a popular choice. But how much does a birth control implant cost? The price can vary depending on factors such as insurance coverage, your location, and whether you qualify for certain programs. In this article, we’ll explore the costs associated with getting a birth control implant, how insurance can impact the price, and what to expect if you’re paying out of pocket.
What Is a Birth Control Implant?
Before diving into costs, it’s important to understand what a birth control implant is and how it works. The birth control implant, commonly known by its brand name Nexplanon, is a small, flexible rod inserted under the skin of the upper arm. It releases a hormone called progestin, which prevents pregnancy by stopping ovulation, thickening cervical mucus, and thinning the uterine lining.
The implant is one of the most effective forms of birth control, with a success rate of over 99%. Once inserted, it lasts up to three years and can be removed at any time if you decide to become pregnant or switch birth control methods.
| Birth Control Implant Basics | Details |
| Brand name | Nexplanon |
| Hormone released | Progestin |
| Effectiveness | Over 99% |
| Duration | Up to 3 years |
| Location | Upper arm, under the skin |
The Cost of a Birth Control Implant Without Insurance
If you don’t have health insurance, the cost of getting a birth control implant can be significant. The total price typically includes several components:
- The Implant Itself:
- The implant device itself usually costs between $400 and $850.
- Insertion Procedure:
- The cost of the insertion procedure varies, depending on where you get it done. It can range from $200 to $600. This includes the consultation and the actual insertion of the implant.
- Removal of the Implant:
- Removal of the birth control implant is another expense to consider. This can cost between $100 and $300 if you decide to remove it before the three years are up or after the implant’s duration ends.
| Birth Control Implant Costs Without Insurance | Price Range |
| Implant device | $400 – $850 |
| Insertion procedure | $200 – $600 |
| Removal procedure | $100 – $300 |
In total, the cost without insurance could range from $700 to $1,300 for the implant and the insertion procedure. If you later need to have it removed, the overall cost increases. However, these numbers can vary depending on where you live and the healthcare provider you visit.
How Insurance Affects the Cost of a Birth Control Implant
One of the best ways to reduce the cost of a birth control implant is by using health insurance. Under the Affordable Care Act (ACA), most insurance plans, including Medicaid, are required to cover birth control methods, including implants, at no additional cost to the patient. This means that if you have insurance, you may be able to get the birth control implant for free, without paying for the device, insertion, or removal.
- Private Insurance:
- Many private insurance plans fully cover the cost of the implant, including insertion and removal. However, it’s important to check with your provider, as some plans may require a co-pay or limit coverage to specific healthcare providers or clinics.
- Medicaid:
- Medicaid often covers the cost of birth control implants, especially in states that have expanded Medicaid under the ACA. Coverage may vary by state, so it’s essential to check your local Medicaid program for details.
- Other Programs:
- If you don’t have insurance or your insurance doesn’t cover the full cost, there are other programs that may help. Some clinics offer sliding scale fees based on income, and organizations like Planned Parenthood may provide the implant at a reduced cost or even for free if you qualify.
| Insurance Coverage for Birth Control Implant | Coverage Details |
| Private insurance | Often covers the full cost; check with your provider for co-pays or provider limitations. |
| Medicaid | Typically covers the implant, insertion, and removal; varies by state. |
| Other programs | Sliding scale fees or free implants through clinics like Planned Parenthood. |
Additional Costs to Consider with Birth Control Implants
While the implant itself is often the main expense, there are a few other costs to consider, especially if you don’t have full insurance coverage or are paying out of pocket:
- Doctor’s Visits:
- Some healthcare providers may charge for consultation visits to discuss your birth control options, which can range from $50 to $200 depending on the clinic. This may or may not be included in the overall cost of the implant insertion.
- Follow-Up Appointments:
- Although birth control implants are low-maintenance, you may need follow-up appointments to check that the implant is working correctly, especially in the first few months. These appointments can also incur additional costs if not covered by insurance.
- Side Effects and Complications:
- In rare cases, you may experience side effects or complications from the implant, such as migration of the implant or infection at the insertion site. Treating these issues could involve additional medical expenses.
- Switching Birth Control Methods:
- If you decide the implant isn’t the right birth control method for you, switching to another method (such as the pill or an IUD) may involve additional costs for consultation and procedures.
| Additional Costs of Birth Control Implants | Price Range |
| Doctor’s visits (consultations) | $50 – $200 |
| Follow-up appointments | Varies depending on insurance and provider |
| Side effects or complications | Treatment costs vary; depends on insurance coverage |
| Switching birth control methods | Additional consultation or procedure fees may apply |
How Does the Birth Control Implant Compare to Other Methods in Cost?
When considering the cost of a birth control implant, it’s useful to compare it with other birth control methods. While the upfront cost of an implant can be higher, its long-lasting nature means you won’t need to pay for ongoing expenses like you would with the pill or other short-term methods.
- Birth Control Pill:
- The birth control pill is relatively affordable on a monthly basis, costing between $0 and $50 per month depending on insurance. However, over three years, this can add up to between $0 and $1,800—potentially making the implant a more cost-effective option in the long run.
- IUD (Intrauterine Device):
- Like the implant, IUDs have a higher upfront cost, ranging from $500 to $1,300 without insurance. However, they can last up to 10 years, making them another long-term option.
- Condoms:
- Condoms are inexpensive and can be purchased for as little as $0.50 to $1 per condom. However, they need to be used consistently and correctly every time, and over the course of years, the cost can add up.
- Birth Control Shot (Depo-Provera):
- The birth control shot costs around $50 to $150 per injection and is administered every three months. Over the course of three years, the cost can range from $600 to $1,800.
| Birth Control Method | Upfront Cost | Duration | Total Cost Over 3 Years |
| Birth control implant | $700 – $1,300 | 3 years | $700 – $1,300 |
| Birth control pill | $0 – $50 per month | 1 month | $0 – $1,800 |
| IUD | $500 – $1,300 | 5-10 years | $500 – $1,300 |
| Condoms | $0.50 – $1 per use | Per use | Varies based on use |
| Birth control shot | $50 – $150 per shot | 3 months | $600 – $1,800 |
FAQs – How Much Does Birth Control Implant Cost?
Does insurance cover the cost of a birth control implant?
Yes, most health insurance plans, including Medicaid, cover the cost of the birth control implant under the Affordable Care Act. This typically includes the device, insertion, and removal. However, it’s always a good idea to check with your insurance provider for specific coverage details and any potential co-pays.
How much does the birth control implant cost without insurance?
Without insurance, the total cost of a birth control implant can range from $700 to $1,300. This includes the price of the implant itself, the insertion procedure, and potential removal costs. Some clinics may offer sliding scale fees or financial assistance for those without insurance.
Are there programs that offer free or low-cost birth control implants?
Yes, organizations like Planned Parenthood and certain community health clinics may offer free or low-cost birth control implants for those who qualify based on income. Additionally, some states have programs that help cover the cost for uninsured individuals.
Is the birth control implant worth the cost?
For many women, the birth control implant is worth the cost because of its high effectiveness, convenience, and long-lasting protection. While the upfront cost may be higher than other methods, the implant can be more cost-effective over time, especially when considering the lack of ongoing expenses compared to monthly birth control methods like the pill.
How long does the birth control implant last?
The birth control implant lasts up to three years once inserted. After three years, it must be removed and can be replaced with a new implant if desired. Removal and reinsertion costs may vary, but insurance typically covers these procedures.
What is the cost to remove a birth control implant?
The cost to remove a birth control implant can range from $100 to $300 without insurance. If you have insurance, this procedure is usually covered at no additional cost under most plans. It’s important to confirm with your healthcare provider whether removal is included in your coverage.
Can I get the birth control implant for free?
If you have insurance, the birth control implant may be covered at no cost under the Affordable Care Act. Additionally, some clinics, such as Planned Parenthood, offer free or low-cost birth control implants to individuals who meet income eligibility requirements.
How much does Nexplanon cost out of pocket?
Nexplanon, the brand name for the birth control implant, typically costs between $700 and $1,300 without insurance. This includes the cost of the device, insertion, and removal, though these prices can vary depending on the clinic and location.
Are there any hidden costs associated with the birth control implant?
In most cases, there are no hidden costs for the birth control implant if you have insurance, as it typically covers the device, insertion, and removal. However, if you don’t have insurance, you may need to factor in consultation fees, follow-up visits, and potential complications.
Is the birth control implant cheaper than the pill?
Over the course of three years, the birth control implant can be more cost-effective than the pill, especially if you don’t have to pay for ongoing prescriptions or refills. The pill may cost anywhere from $0 to $50 per month, adding up to $1,800 over three years, while the implant is a one-time cost of up to $1,300 for the same duration.
Conclusion: How Much Does Birth Control Implant Cost?
Long-Term Savings with Effective Coverage
The cost of a birth control implant can vary widely, from $0 to $1,300, depending on your insurance coverage, location, and financial assistance programs. While the upfront cost might seem high, the implant offers long-term contraception for up to three years, making it a cost-effective choice for many women. Whether you’re looking to avoid the monthly expenses of the pill or seeking a hassle-free option, the birth control implant can provide peace of mind without the need for daily upkeep.