Long-acting reversible contraceptive (LARCs) methods

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Health
• Contraception
• Public Health

Background:

• Unplanned pregnancy (UP) is a significant global public health issue impacting millions of women.
• Long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARCs) offer highly effective solutions for preventing unplanned pregnancies, comparable to permanent methods.
• Advancements in LARC technology include copper intrauterine devices (Cu-IUDs), various levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine systems (LNG IUS), and etonogestrel implants.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the effectiveness of Long-Acting Reversible Contraceptives (LARCs) in preventing unplanned pregnancies.
• To discuss the evolution and improved options within LARC methods.
• To present emerging evidence on extended use durations for specific LARCs.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature and evidence on LARC effectiveness and technological advancements.
• Analysis of data regarding the performance and safety of various LARC methods.
• Examination of studies evaluating extended use periods for LNG IUS and etonogestrel implants.

Main Results:

• LARCs provide superior contraceptive effectiveness due to their high efficacy and user-independent mechanism.
• Newer LARC formulations, including multiple types of LNG IUS and implants, have expanded choices for women.
• Evidence supports extending the use of the 52 mg LNG IUS beyond five years and the etonogestrel implant beyond three years.

Conclusions:

• LARCs are a cornerstone strategy for reducing unplanned pregnancies globally.
• Technological innovations have enhanced the options and effectiveness of LARCs.
• The extended usability of certain LARCs represents a significant advancement, adding value and potentially improving long-term contraceptive adherence.