LET’S TALK ABOUT LONG-ACTING REVERSIBLE CONTRACEPTION
WHAT IS LONG-ACTING REVERSIBLE CONTRACEPTION (LARC)?
LARC (birth control) methods include:
- The copper intrauterine device (IUD)
- IUDs that contain a small amount of the hormone levonorgestrel - Mirena® (52 mg intrauterine levonorgestrel delivery system) and Jaydess® (13.5 mg intrauterine levonorgestrel delivery system)
- The implant Jadelle® (2X75 mg levonorgestrel subcutaneous implants)
LARC methods are very effective at preventing unplanned pregnancy because they work without you having to remember to do anything on a regular basis – like take a pill every day or make an appointment to get an injection every 3 months. This is why LARC is sometimes called “fit and forget” contraception. However, you do need to make sure you have your LARC replaced at the right time. This depends on your LARC method.
HOW EFFECTIVE ARE THE DIFFERENT CONTRACEPTIVE METHODS?
LARC methods are some of the most effective forms of contraception available - comparable to permanent contraception - but with the benefit of being completely reversible if you change your mind and want to get pregnant.
*Percentage of women experiencing an unintended pregnancy during the first year of typical use of contraception in the United States.
WHAT IF I DECIDE THAT I WANT TO HAVE A BABY?
LARC methods are completely reversible. This means that if you decide you would like to have a baby, you can have your LARC removed and return to your normal level of fertility right away.
And, if you already have a baby, LARC methods don’t contain estrogen and won’t affect how much breast milk you produce, so you can use them if you are breastfeeding.
WHERE CAN I GET MORE INFORMATION ABOUT LARC AND WHO OFFERS LARC INSERTION SERVICES?
There are a number of different types of healthcare providers that may offer LARC insertion services including:
- Specialist gynaecology clinics
- Some specially trained doctors (GPs), nurses and midwives
- Sexual Wellbeing Aotearoa clinics
- Sexual health clinics
- Abortion providers
Make an appointment to see your doctor or nurse, Sexual Wellbeing Aotearoa or local contraception clinic to discuss your contraceptive needs and help you decide whether a LARC is right for you, To help you find a clinic that provides contraception services, visit www.protectedandproud.nz/services/.
The Sexual Wellbeing Aotearoa website https://sexualwellbeing.org.nz/ has a clinic finder so you can find a clinic near you, along with clinic contact details. Appointments are free for women under the age of 22.
PP-PF-WHC-NZ-0037-4. TAPS NP25426A, SEPTEMBER 2026