Long acting reversible contraceptive (LARC) methods

Question 1

These methods are

Answer 1

a non-permanent contraception

administered less frequently than once a month

include:

• implants
• IUCDs
• injectables.

the most effective reversible contraceptives

with failure rates for typical use virtually the same as for perfect use.

They play an important public health role in reducing unintended pregnancies.

Question 2

Overview of contraceptive methods and failure rates

Source: Therapeutic Guidelines (Endocrinology Version 5, 2014) CD-rom

Answer 2

Failure rate/100 women

Method Typical use Perfect use

No method 85 85

Oral contraception

• combined (COC) 9 0.3
• progestogen only (POP-mini pill) 1–4 0.3

Injectable progesteron (Depo Provera) 6 0.2

Implant (etonogestrel) 0.05 0.05

IUCDs

• copper 0.8 0.6
• progestogen (Mirena) 0.2 0.2

Vaginal ring 9 0.3

Barrier methods

• diaphragm (with spermicide) 12 6
• male condom 8 2

Sterilisation

• female 0.5 0.5
• male 0.15 0.1

Fertility awareness methods 24 0.4–5.0

Coitus interruptus (withdrawal) 22 4

Dermal patch 9 0.3