Spotlight On: Long-Acting Reversible Contraception – Find The Perfect Match For You

With so many varieties of contraception available to Irish women today, finding the one that's just right for you can be a challenge. The best way to find your perfect match is to be well-informed about the different options out there.  In this article we're focusing on Long-Acting Reversible Contraceptives (LARCs). A recent survey by Bayer Healthcare found that 79 per cent of women in Ireland are not aware of LARCs, so it seems fair to assume that a lot of us are in the dark about these. It's also interesting to note that a study undertaken in the US in 2012 revealed that when more than 9,000 girls (aged between 18 and 35) were given information on all types of contraceptive methods including LARCs, 75 per cent of them chose a LARC option. Before we take a closer look at the various options, it's worth pointing out that a number of international bodies including the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence in the UK and the American College of Obstetrics & Gynecology recommend usage of LARCs for all age groups. What are the benefits of LARCs? Convenience LARCs are a good option for women who don't want the hassle and worry of thinking about contraception on a daily basis. Unlike the pill, when it comes to LARCs, it's simply a case of 'fit and forget.' Effectiveness At 99 percent, LARCs are among the most effective types of birth control. Cost-effective While the upfront costs can be significant, LARCs are cost-effective long-term. Reversible LARCs can be used for a long time but can be stopped at any stage with no delay in return to fertility (an exception can be the injection) Here's an overview of the four choices: The contraceptive IUS/ hormonal coil The IUS (intrauterine system) or hormonal coil is a small, T-shaped plastic device that is inserted into your womb. It works by releasing a progestogen hormone into the womb which helps to thicken the mucus from your cervix making it difficult for sperm to move through to fertilise the egg. The IUS can work for three or five years depending on the type. It is more than 99% effective and can be fitted at any time during your monthly cycle. Ideally, it should be fitted within seven days of the start of your period. The copper IUD/non-hormonal coil The contraceptive IUD (intrauterine device) is a small plastic and copper device that is inserted into your womb. It is quite like the aforementioned IUS coil, however it does not release the hormone progestogen but instead, releases copper. The copper released changes the make-up of fluids in the womb which stops sperm surviving. IUDs are more than 99% effective, and can be be used for up to 10 years depending on the type. Ideally the IUD should be inserted between days 4 to 12 of your normal menstrual cycle. The contraceptive injection With a failure rate of less than 1 per cent, the injection is very effective form of contraception, and it's suitable for women who want a long-term solution. The injection lasts for three months and it's administered by a doctor or a nurse. However, failure rate may rise if you are late getting your injections. How does it work? The injection contains a progestogen hormone that is injected into the muscle (usually your bum!) before being gradually released into the bloodstream. It stops the release of the egg from the ovary and helps to stop sperm getting through to fertilise the egg. It also makes the lining of the womb thinner which makes it unlikely for a fertilised egg to implant in the womb. The contraceptive implant The contraceptive implant is a flexible plastic rod (about the size of a matchstick) that is inserted under the skin. It is implanted into the inner side of your upper arm between day one to five of your period. The implant, which lasts for three years, works by releasing a low dose of the hormone progesterone every day, which prevents pregnancy by stopping you from ovulating. It is believed that the failure rate of the implant is about 0.03% - in other words, there is a one in 3,000 chance of getting pregnant. It's important to note that condoms are the only form of contraception that protect against sexually transmitted infections. For information about finding the right contraception for you, you can check out mycontraception.ie for more details on all of these forms of contraception. Or to take part in their Valentine's Day survey, click here.  Make sure to book an appointment with your GP to discuss all of your options and find that perfect match for you.  #YourPerfectMatch is an educational campaign sponsored by Bayer. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l2AxaFYfZ3o _{L.IE.WH.01.2015.0301}