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Long-Acting Reversible Contraceptive (LARC)
Introduction
Long-acting Reversible Contraceptive (LARC) devises are birth control methods that provides effective contraceptive for an extended period of time. You do not have to think about contraception on a daily basis or every time you have sex, as with the oral contraceptive pills or condoms. Longacting reversible contraceptive is highly effective in preventing unintended pregnancies and can be stopped if you decide you want to get pregnant.
Long-acting Reversible Contraceptive (LARC) includes the following:
Implants
These are inserted under the skin and lasts up to 3 years.
Intrauterine device
These are inserted into the womb and lasts for 5 to 10 years before they need replacing.
Contraceptive injection
These work up to 12 weeks before being repeated.
Types of long-acting reversible contraceptive
Copper IUD
What is it?
A small plastic and copper device which is inserted into the womb
How does it work?
Prevents fertilization and inhibits implantation of egg in the womb
How long does it last?
5 to 10 years depending on type
Chances of getting pregnant
Less than 2% of women over a 5 year period
Could it affect chances of getting pregnant in the future
No
Effect on period?
Periods may become heavier or more painful
Unwanted effects?
Risk of ectopic pregnancy is higher if a women falls pregnant while using an IUD
Checks needed whilst using LARC
Needs check-up after first period after insertion. Regularly feel for threads of IUD to ensure it is still in place
See doctor/nurse if you experience any problem or want to have it removed
IUS
What is it?
A small plastic device which is inserted into the womb and slowly releases progestogen
How does it work?
Mainly prevents implantation of egg and sometimes prevents fertilization
How long does it last?
5 years
Chances of getting pregnant
Less than 1% of women over a 5 year period
Could it affect chances of getting pregnant in the future
No
Effect on period?
For the first 6 months there may be irregular bleeding or spotting
Unwanted effects?
- Risk of ectopic pregnancy is higher if a women falls pregnant while using an IUD
- May develop acne
Checks needed whilst using LARC
Needs check-up after first period after insertion. Regularly feel for threads of IUD to ensure it is still in place
See doctor/nurse if you experience any problem or want to have it removed
Progesterone-only injection
What is it?
An injection that slowly releases progestogen
How does it work?
Prevents ovulation
How long does it last?
Repeat injection every 8 to 12 weeks depending on type
Chances of getting pregnant
Less than 0.4% of women over a 2 year period
Could it affect chances of getting pregnant in the future
It may take up to a year for fertility to return to normal
Effect on period?
Periods often stop, but some women experience irregular or persistent
Unwanted effects?
- May gain weight (2 to 3kg over a years)
- May cause thinning of the bones which is reversible on stopping
Checks needed whilst using LARC
None, you need to regularly receive repeat injection
See your doctor or nurse if you experience any problems related to the injection
Implant (Nexplanon)
What is it?
A small, flexible rod inserted under the skin that slowly releases progestogen
How does it work?
Prevents ovulation
How long does it last?
3 years
Chances of getting pregnant
Less than 0.1% of women over a 3 year period
Could it affect chances of getting pregnant in the future
No
Effect on period?
Period pains may improve. Periods may stop, or become longer or irregular until removal of implant
Unwanted effects?
May develop acne
Checks needed whilst using LARC
None
See your doctor or nurse if you experience any problems related to the implant, want to stop using it or have it removed