Long-acting reversible contraception (LARC) or long-acting reversible birth control are methods of birth control that provide effective pregnancy preventation for an extended time without requiring the person to do anything. They include injections, intrauterine devices (IUDs) and subdermal implants. They are very effective with only a 1% failure rate. They are also much more cost effective than traditional birth control, such as condoms and birth control pills.

Methods include:

  • Hormonal intrauterine device (Mirena – also known as IUC or IUS)
  • Nonhormonal intrauterine device with copper
  • Subdermal contraceptive implant (Nexplanon/Implanon/Implanon/Norplant/Jadelle)
  • Depot medroxyprogesterone acetate injection (Depo Provera shot)
  • monthly injection of a progestin and a synthetic estrogen

Nov. 17th – 21st is LARC week. For more information you can visit the www.lovemylarc.org and for information on all birth control methods and other reproductive health education.