A Review of Long-Acting Reversible Contraception Methods and Barriers to Their Use

Unplanned pregnancies are a serious health concern in Wisconsin. Increasing access to contraception is a proven method to reduce unplanned pregnancies while giving patients greater agency. Long-acting reversible contraception (LARC) methods, such as subdermal implants and intrauterine devices (IUD), are among the most effective contraception methods available and have high patient satisfaction. However, relatively few Wisconsin patients use these methods. Lack of provider skill in inserting and counseling about LARCs, inability to perform same-day LARC insertion, and absent hospital protocols for immediate postpartum insertion represent barriers to LARC access. Centralized efforts are required to remove these barriers so that all patients in Wisconsin can access highly effective contraception.