[Reversible long-duration contraceptives: an efficient strategy to reduce non-planned pregnancies]

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Health
• Contraception Research
• Public Health Policy

Context:

• Mexico faces challenges with unintended pregnancies despite diverse contraceptive options.
• Most women in Mexico utilize less effective birth control methods.
• Long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARCs) are underutilized.

Purpose:

• To evaluate the effectiveness and accessibility of long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARCs).
• To assess LARCs as a strategy for reducing unintended pregnancies in Mexico.
• To inform reproductive health policies regarding contraceptive choices.

Summary:

• A literature review was conducted by the Mexican Federation of Colleges of Obstetrics and Gynecology (FEMECOG).
• The review focused on the high effectiveness and compliance rates of LARCs.
• Findings highlight the potential of LARCs to mitigate unintended pregnancies and their consequences.

Impact:

• Reducing unintended pregnancies can decrease abortion rates and improve maternal health outcomes.
• Increased LARC use can lead to significant public health benefits in Mexico.
• This evaluation supports informed decision-making for reproductive health services.