Promoting the Use of Long-Acting Reversible Contraceptives

Long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARC) have the advantage of high efficacy associated with long duration of action. They include progestogen-only sub-dermal implants, intrauterine systems and copper releasing intra-uterine devices. Although LARC have obvious benefits both for women and the community it is apparent that there is a general lack of knowledge about these methods. In order to increase the use of LARC it is important that both women and health providers have accurate information about these methods. Ensuring clinicians have adequate training in the use of, counselling and insertion of both implants and IUD/IUS through ongoing education will improve access. Availability of same day insertion for women requesting this and encouraging insertion immediately post-abortion or early in the post-partum will also improve access. However, it is important that women's autonomy to decide about which method of contraception to use is respected despite the emphasis being placed on increasing the use of LARC. This manuscript will provide information about LARC and discuss barriers to their use and strategies for increasing use.