Long-acting reversible contraception (LARC) is a type of birth control that is effective for an extended period of time, typically several years, without requiring regular user action.
LARC is highly effective at preventing unintended pregnancies and is considered to be one of the most reliable forms of birth control available: play more than 99% effective in preventing unintended pregnancy.
The most common types of LARC methods are intrauterine devices (IUDs) and hormonal implants.
IUDs are small, T-shaped devices that are inserted into the uterus by a healthcare provider.
They have strings that extend through the cervix.
There are two types of IUDs: hormonal and nonhormonal.
Hormonal IUD‘s contain hormone levonorgestrel, and the duration of effectiveness for contraception ranges from 3 to 8 years.
The nonhormonal IUD‘s are made of copper, and can provide effective contraception for up to 12 years.
Hormonal IUD’s or immediately effective if inserted within seven days of a period.
Copper IUDs her immediately effective after insertion.
They work by preventing fertilization of the egg by sperm, and they can be effective for up to 3-10 years depending on the type of IUD used.
IUDs are placed and removed during an office visit using a speculum.
IUD complications are rare, including placement injury, a typical location of the IUD, increased bleeding, and pain during periods.
IUDs should not be placed in individuals with a pelvic infection, endometrial, or cervical cancer, or an abnormally shaped uterus.
Hormonal implants are small, flexible rods that are inserted under the skin of the upper arm.
They release a progestin hormone that prevents ovulation, and they can be effective for up to 3-5 years.
The implant is immediately effective for contraception, if inserted within the first five days of a menstrual period.
Contraceptive, implant placement, and removal of performed by injecting a local anesthetic in the upper arm.
LARC methods are a good option for people who want to avoid the hassle of remembering to take a pill or use a contraceptive method every day or every time they have sex.
They are also a good option for people who want a reliable method of birth control that can be easily removed if they decide they want to become pregnant.
LARC methods do not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).