This interactive tool can be used to review relevant research and practice tips with residents and other learners who will be counseling patients on contraceptive options. For a detailed comparison of Long-Acting Contraceptive options, see Which Long-Acting Contraceptive Is Right for Me?
What are long-acting contraceptives?
Long-acting contraceptives are plastic birth control devices. These include copper and hormonal IUDs (intrauterine devices) and a hormonal implant. A long-acting contraceptive prevents you from getting pregnant as long as it is in your body.
How well do long-acting contraceptives work?
All long-acting contraceptives prevent pregnancy more than 99% of the time, which is more effective than the pill, the patch, the ring, or the shot.
Are long-acting contraceptives safe?
Long-acting contraceptives are safe. Serious problems are rare and tend to occur within the first few days of use.
Can I get a long-acting contraceptive if I’ve never had a baby?
Yes. Long-acting contraceptives are a good choice even if you have never been pregnant.
How do I get a long-acting contraceptive?
A long-acting contraceptive can be placed by a trained professional. It is done in a medical office and takes only a few minutes. You can return to the office tohave it removed at any time.
What are the benefits to long-acting contraceptives?
The main benefit is that you don’t need to think about or plan for birth control as long as the device is in your body. It is different from surgery (tubal ligation) since you can have the device removed if you don’t like it or if you want to get pregnant. A long-acting contraceptive can prevent pregnancy for an extended period of time. You do not need to buy refills or come back to the office for a shot. Long-acting contraceptives are save to use while breastfeeding.
Do long-acting contraceptives protect against HIV and other sexually transmitted infections?
No, these contraceptives do notprotect you from sexually transmitted infections.You should use a condom every time you have sex, even with an IUD or implant, to prevent HIV and other sexually transmitted infections.
Do I need to have my long-acting contraceptive checked regularly?
No routine visits are necessary. Schedule a visit with your provider if you have any questions, want to change your method, or would like to have your long-acting contraceptive removed.
How much do long-acting contraceptives costs?
The cost varies based on insurance coverage. Some insurance providers completely cover the cost of long-acting contraceptives. If the contraceptive isnot covered by your insurance,it may cost several hundred dollars.
Do IUDs cause abortion?
No. IUDs work primarily bypreventing sperm from fertilizing eggs.
What happens if I want to get pregnant?
Your health care provider can remove your long-acting contraceptive at any time. Some people remove their own IUDs. You can get pregnant right after the IUD or implant is removed.
