Are you wondering if long-acting reversible contraception (LARC) might be right for you? Make an appointment at your local Planned Parenthood Mohawk Hudson health center to discuss your birth control options with a health care professional.
Long-acting reversible contraceptive (LARC) methods, which include the intrauterine device (IUD) and the implant, are the most effective forms of reversible birth control. In addition, they are safe and effective for most women and teens.
IUDs are small, T-shaped pieces of plastic that are put into the uterus to prevent pregnancy. There are two types of IUDs, ParaGard and Mirena.
ParaGard:
• 98% effective in preventing pregnancy
• Can be used for 12 years
• May be removed at any time if a woman would like to become pregnant
• Made of copper
• Contains no hormones
Mirena:
• 99% effective in preventing pregnancy
• Can be used for five years
• May also be removed if a woman would like to become pregnant
• Contains levonorgestrel, a progestin hormone used in some birth control pills
Implant (a thin, matchstick-sized rod that goes under the skin of your upper arm):
• 99% effective in preventing pregnancy
• Can be used for up to three years
• Contains etonogestrel, a progestin hormone used in some birth control methods.
It is important to remember that LARCs do not protect against sexually transmitted infections. In order to protect yourself against sexually transmitted infections, also use a condom during intercourse.
