For many women, Nexplanon—a small birth-control implant placed in the arm—has been a convenient, long-term option. But in recent years, lawsuits have emerged raising questions about side effects, device movement, and complications. If you’ve heard about a Nexplanon lawsuit and want clear, everyday guidance—without legal jargon—this article walks you through what’s going on, who may be affected, and what to expect as the cases move forward.
What Is Nexplanon?
Nexplanon is a tiny, flexible plastic rod approved by the FDA to prevent pregnancy for up to three years (sometimes extended to five). It’s implanted just under the skin of the upper arm and slowly releases a hormone called etonogestrel, which stops ovulation and thickens cervical mucus.

The device is made by Organon (formerly part of Merck).
It’s one of the most effective forms of birth control—but like any device, it can have side effects.
What Is the Nexplanon Lawsuit About?
The Nexplanon lawsuit generally centers around claims that the device can:
- migrate from the arm to other parts of the body
- cause serious complications such as nerve damage or vascular injuries
- be difficult to locate for removal
- require surgical intervention
- lead to pain, scarring, or long-term medical issues
Some claimants also argue that warnings did not fully explain the potential for device migration or complications from improper insertion or removal.
These lawsuits generally allege:
- Product liability (defective design or manufacturing)
- Failure to warn
- Negligence
- Improper or incomplete safety disclosures
The companies involved deny wrongdoing, but the lawsuits continue to develop in various courts.
Why People Are Filing Nexplanon Lawsuits
The main reasons consumers have taken legal action include:
- Device Migration
Some women say their Nexplanon implant traveled from the insertion point to:
- the armpit
- chest wall
- lungs (rare but reported)
When this happens, doctors may need imaging—like X-rays or MRIs—to find it.
- Difficult or Failed Removal
If the implant is not where it should be, removal becomes harder. Some women report:
- multiple removal attempts
- surgery
- scarring
- nerve-related pain
- Serious Side Effects
Other reported complications include:
- blood clots
- infections
- perforation of tissues
- hormonal complications
Not every side effect qualifies for a lawsuit, but serious medical issues may.
Who Is Affected by the Nexplanon Lawsuit?
You may fall into the affected group if you:
✔ Used a Nexplanon implant and experienced complications
Examples include:
- device migration
- difficulty locating the implant
- surgical removal
- nerve or vascular injury
- severe pain or scarring
✔ Needed medical treatment or imaging
Cases that involve ER visits, surgery, X-rays, or MRIs are more likely to be relevant.
✔ Suffered long-term impacts
Some lawsuits involve ongoing pain, numbness, or other lasting issues.
✔ Believe you were not properly warned about the risks
Failure-to-warn claims argue that marketing and instructions did not fully warn users or doctors.
If unsure, a law firm typically reviews your situation for free.
Timeline of the Nexplanon Lawsuit
Even though lawsuits may be filed in different states, most product liability cases follow a similar pattern:
- Reports of injuries and complications
Women experiencing problems begin reporting issues to doctors and, in some cases, the FDA.
- Individual lawsuits are filed
Attorneys submit claims arguing that Nexplanon caused harm and that warnings were insufficient.
- Possible consolidation
Sometimes similar cases are grouped together, known as multidistrict litigation (MDL).
(This has not yet been confirmed for Nexplanon but is possible if cases grow.)
- Discovery begins
Both sides review medical records, device data, and internal company documents.
- Settlement talks
Most medical-device lawsuits settle before trial. A possible Nexplanon lawsuit settlement may offer compensation for:
- medical bills
- lost wages
- pain and suffering
- long-term complications
- Trials (if no settlement)
If cases do not settle, some may go to trial.
- Claims process (if a settlement is reached)
Claimants submit documentation to prove injury and qualify for compensation.
What’s at Stake in the Nexplanon Lawsuit?
- Compensation for Injuries
Settlements in device-injury cases (similar to IUD or implant cases) may include:
- current and future medical bills
- costs for imaging and surgery
- lost earnings
- permanent disability
- emotional distress
- pain and suffering
Exact amounts depend on the severity of the injury.
- Warnings and Safety Improvements
Lawsuits sometimes push manufacturers to:
- update instructions
- improve insertion/removal training
- enhance product warnings
- adjust manufacturing processes
- Accountability in Women’s Health Products
Many patients argue that women’s health devices should have clearer warnings and more transparent risk communication.
How to Know If You Can Join the Nexplanon Lawsuit
Every case is different, but you may be eligible if:
- You had a Nexplanon implant
- The device migrated or broke
- Removal was difficult or required surgery
- You experienced nerve injury or vascular issues
- You needed imaging to find the device
- You suffered complications not clearly disclosed
To explore whether you qualify, individuals usually:
Step 1: Gather medical records
Especially notes about insertion, removal, or complications.
Step 2: Document symptoms
Pain, numbness, scars, or long-term medical issues.
Step 3: Consult a product-liability attorney
Most law firms offer free evaluations and work on contingency (no upfront fees).
Step 4: File a case or join existing claims
If cases become consolidated into an MDL, you may join that action.
Step 5: Await updates on settlement or trial progress
What to Watch Next (Case Update Expectations)
If you’re following the Nexplanon lawsuit case update, here are key milestones to monitor:
✔ New lawsuits filed
More filings increase the chance of centralized litigation.
✔ Court decisions
Early rulings determine whether the lawsuits can move forward.
✔ Potential MDL Creation
If many similar cases emerge nationwide, they may be consolidated for efficiency.
✔ Discovery phase updates
This is where important safety documents often appear.
✔ Negotiations for a lawsuit settlement
Most device cases settle before trial.
✔ Official claim forms
If a settlement occurs, claim forms will explain:
- who can claim
- required documentation
- compensation ranges
- deadlines
FAQ: Nexplanon Lawsuit
- What is the Nexplanon lawsuit about?
It involves claims that the birth-control implant may migrate, cause serious complications, or require difficult surgical removal, and that users were not adequately warned.
- Who can claim compensation?
Anyone who used Nexplanon and experienced device migration, difficult removal, surgery, nerve damage, or other serious complications may qualify.
- Is there a Nexplanon lawsuit settlement yet?
As of the latest information, no global settlement has been reached, but cases continue to develop in various courts.
- Do I need proof or medical records?
Yes. Records showing complications, imaging, or removal attempts strengthen a claim.
- How much money can someone receive?
Compensation varies widely depending on injury severity, medical bills, lasting impacts, and number of claimants.
- Do I need a lawyer?
Most people consult a product-liability lawyer because these cases involve medical records, safety evidence, and complex legal rules.
Final Note
The Nexplanon lawsuit highlights important questions about medical-device safety, transparency, and patient rights. If you believe you were affected, staying updated on the case and seeking professional guidance can help you understand your options.

Oliver Johnson is LawScroller’s Senior Legal Correspondent specializing in civil litigation, class actions, and consumer lawsuit coverage. He breaks down complex settlements and court decisions into clear, practical guidance for readers.