I'm 19 with a 1 yea old and married. We are just starting and are low on funds and I just lost my health insurance. I have been on Implanon for almost a year now. Always having irregular periods. But about two and one half weeks ago I started spotting very dark and noticing my lower belly harden, sharp pains almost cramp like but worse, mood swings, cravings, headache and backaches, dizzy and tired and I haven't had a real bleeding period in about a month. Just spotting . Hpt is negative. What to do? Is this normal side effects? And if I am pregnant will Implanon hurt the baby if I wait too long to find out?

Hi laudie619... welcome to AMHD,

The Implanon is known for causing irregular bleeding so that can make it difficult to use a lack of a period or unusual spotting/bleeding as a possible indication of pregnancy. It may also cause some of the other symptoms as well.

While pregnancy can occur while using Implanon, it is not the norm.

You could always try another pregnancy test in another week. If you continue with the possible symptoms, you may want to see your doctor about having a blood test done.

If you were to be pregnant, you would want the Implanon removed as soon as you find out. It is known to pose risks for a pregnancy.

It is one of those situation where if you continue to have similar symptoms, and it causes you to wonder, you may want to try a pregnancy test every now and then for the peace of mind. The other option would be to discuss alternative birth control options with your doctor.