Long-Acting Reversible Contraceptive (LARC): IUD and birth control implant

There are two types of long-acting reversible contraceptive (LARC) methods, the intrauterine device (IUD) and birth control implant, which is also known as Nexplanon.  LARCs are the most effective forms of reversible birth control available. According to the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecologists, over time LARCs are 20 times more effective preventing pregnancy than birth control pills, the patch or the ring.

It is important to note that LARCs do not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STI). If you are at risk for STI, condoms are highly recommended.

Intrauterine Device (IUD)

An IUD is a small, T shaped plastic device that is inserted into the uterus. There are two types of IUD options, hormonal or nonhormonal. The hormonal IUD prevents pregnancy by thickening your cervical mucus making it harder for fertilization to occur and by thinning your endometrial lining. The copper in the nonhormonal IUD helps prevents pregnancy by interfering with the sperms ability to move, making it harder for fertilization to occur.

There are many benefits of an IUD including:

• Highly effective for preventing pregnancy for many years.
• Discrete method of contraception
• Does not interfere with sex. Can use tampon if needed.
• Can be used while breastfeeding.
• If pregnancy is desired, rapid return to fertility after removal.
• Because the hormonal IUD thins the endometrial lining, these IUDs are also approved for treating heavy periods.

Birth Control Implant – Nexplanon

Nexplanon is a small flexible rod about the size of a matchstick that is placed under the skin of your arm and is used for the prevention of pregnancy for up to 3 years. The hormone in the Nexplanon helps prevent pregnancy by stopping ovulation, thickening cervical mucus, and thinning the endometrial lining.

There are many benefits of an IUD including:

• Highly effective for preventing pregnancy for many years.
• Discrete method of contraception
• Does not interfere with sex.
• Can be used while breastfeeding.
• If pregnancy is desired, rapid return to fertility after removal.