Women's Health Hub

Long-Acting Reversible Contraception?

What is Long-Acting Reversible Contraception?

Long-Acting Reversible Contraception, also known as LARC, are forms of contraception that doesn’t depend on you remembering to take or use it to be effective; they are highly effective at preventing pregnancy.

Coils and Implants are examples of LARC, which have many advantages over alternative contraception methods (like the pill), such as:

Highly Effective
- Over 99% effective at preventing pregnancy — among the most reliable forms of contraception available.
- No “user error,” such as forgetting a pill or misusing condoms.
Long-Lasting Protection
- Works for 3–10 years, depending on the method, or up to 3 years for the implant.
- No need to remember daily, weekly, or monthly doses.
Reversible
- Fertility usually returns quickly once the device is removed.
Low Maintenance
- “Fit and Forget” — once inserted, you don’t have to think about it until it’s time to replace or remove it.
Cost-Effective Over Time
- As this is a service provided by the NHS, there is no initial cost to the patient, thus it becomes much more cost-effective than buying shorter-term contraceptives (even if on prescription).
Suitable for Most People (Non-Hormonal IUD)
- Safe for many who cannot use hormonal contraception (due to specific health conditions or other risk factors).
Can Improve Period Symptoms (Hormonal IUS)
- It can make periods lighter, less painful, or stop them altogether in some cases.

How to access LARC?

your GP practice can book you a consultation to discuss your options
NHS Open Clinic Sexual health services.

https://openclinic.org.uk