Spotlight on… Long-Acting Reversible Contraception

LARCs are growing in popularity

among our patients because they

–last for years (5-12 years depending on the device) –are more than 99% effective –don’t require a daily pill, so there’s little or no chance of user error –can be removed at any time.

THERE ARE THREE TYPES OF LARCs:

The hormonal intrauterine device (IUD) is a small, T-shaped device placed inside the uterus to prevent pregnancy by releasing small amount of hormones into the body.

Actual size

The copper IUD is similar to the hormonal IUD but does not release any hormones. Instead, it uses copper wire to prevent pregnancy.

The overall unintended pregnancy rate in the U.S.

decreased substantially from 2008 to 2011, due in part to the use of highly effective contraceptive methods like LARCs (source: Guttmacher Institute). However, LARCs can cost up to $900, making them prohibitively expensive for many patients. We want

patients to choose the contraceptive method that’s best for their bodies and their circumstances, not

simply use the only method they can afford. With that in mind, we created patient assistance funds to help keep these contraceptives affordable for our patients. Support from donors and foundation partners allows us to give a greater measure of reproductive justice to women who are economically disadvantaged by helping them obtain LARCs on a sliding fee scale.

Because LARCs are effective for such a long time, even though LARCs accounted for only 5% of the total contraceptive units provided in 2019, they offered 79% of the weeks of protection.

Actual size

The implantis a small, flexible rod that goes under the skin of the upper arm and releases hormones into the body.