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The main points
- LARC will stop you getting pregnant for a number of months or years.
- There are two types of LARC that you can use: a contraceptive implant or an IUD (intrauterine device).
- You don’t need to go to a hospital to get a LARC. In most cases, you can get a LARC inserted in a simple visit to a clinic.
Long acting reversible contraception (LARC) is a good option for people who might not want to have to remember their contraception every day or every time they have sex.
What is LARC?
LARC will stop you from getting pregnant for a number of months or years. There are two types of LARC that you can use:
- a contraceptive implant that is placed under the skin of your arm – lasts for up to 3 years
- an IUD (intrauterine device). This is a small device that is placed inside your uterus – lasts for up to 5 to 10 years
An implant or IUD can be removed when you don’t want to use it anymore.
Advantages of using LARCs
- Effective, low cost contraception that lasts for a long time.
- You don’t have to remember to use contraception every day.
- Doesn’t interfere with you having sex.
- Once an IUD or implant is removed, fertility returns quickly.
- No one can see that you are using a LARC.
Which LARC is best for you?
Contraceptive implants and IUDs are only two of many different contraceptives and may not be suitable for everyone. Talk to your doctor or nurse about the one that will suit you best.
A condom is always a good idea
No matter which contraception you choose, using an external condom or an internal condom is the best way to protect yourself against sexually transmissible infections (STIs).