Long-Acting Reversable Contraception (LARC)

Long-Acting Reversible Contraception (or LARC) is a term used to describe birth control which helps to prevent pregnancy after just one treatment.

These forms of contraception will then last a significant amount of time before they need to be changed or redone.

Here we provide information on the different types you can get and how they work.

There are a number of different long-acting reversible contraceptives which provide effective contraception for an extended period. They include the contraceptive implant, intrauterine devices (IUDs), intrauterine systems (IUS) and the contraceptive injection.

Long-Acting Reversable Contraception (LARC)

Long-Acting Reversible Contraception (or LARC) is a term used to describe birth control which helps to prevent pregnancy after just one treatment.

These forms of contraception will then last a significant amount of time before they need to be changed or redone.

Here we provide information on the different types you can get and how they work.

Contraceptive Implant

A contraceptive implant is a small, flexible rod which gets placed under your skin in your upper arm. It then releases a progestogen hormone, which is similar to the natural progesterone produced in ovaries. This hormone works by thickening the mucus in the neck of the womb making it harder for sperm to enter.

The implant is 99% effective when used correctly and lasts for up to three years. You don’t have to do anything special to keep it working and you can have it removed at any time.

Side effects from the implant are rare and usually go away after a few weeks. They can include headaches, nausea and breast tenderness.

If you’re thinking about getting an implant, talk to your doctor. They can help you decide if it’s right for you and answer any questions you have.

Intrauterine Device (IUD)

An IUD – or intrauterine device – is a small device that’s placed in your uterus. It’s a type of birth control which can last for 3-12 years, depending on the type of IUD you get.

They work by preventing sperm from reaching the egg. The copper in the IUD also makes the lining of your uterus less hospitable to an egg, so it’s less likely to implant.

IUDs are more than 99% effective at preventing pregnancy, which is slightly more effective than the morning-after pill. They’re also very safe with very few risks and side effects are rare.

If you want, you can have the IUD removed once the risk of pregnancy has passed. Or, you can keep it in and use it as your regular form of birth control.

If you’re thinking about getting an IUD, talk to your doctor. They can help you decide if it’s right for you and answer any questions you have.

Call our helpline on 0300 003 1212

Contraceptive Injection

The contraceptive injection is a method of birth control which contains a progestogen hormone. This is similar to the natural progesterone that is produced in ovaries.

The injection is given every 12 weeks and it prevents pregnancy by thickening the mucus in the neck of your womb making it harder for sperm to enter.

The contraceptive injection is 99% effective at preventing pregnancy and it’s a good option for people who don’t want to take a pill every day, as well as people who have trouble remembering to take a pill.

Side effects from the contraceptive injection are rare and usually go away after a few weeks, they can include headaches, nausea and spotting between periods.

If you’re thinking about getting the contraceptive injection, talk to your doctor. They can help you decide if it’s right for you and answer any questions you have.