LARC First: What the General Pediatrician Needs to Know about IUDs and Contraceptive Implants

Abstract

Despite a steady decline during the past 20 years teen pregnancy remains a significant public health issue in the United States the overwhelming majority (80%) of which is unintended. Long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARCs) such as intrauterine devices (IUDs) and contraceptive implants are the most effective methods of reversible contraception and are recommended as first-line contraception for teens by adolescent medicine and reproductive health specialists. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) Medical Eligibility Criteria a comprehensive summary of recommendations regarding contraceptive safety for a wide array of medical conditions supports the use of IUDs and contraceptive implants for females younger than 20 years old. However only 4.5% of teens who use birth control currently use a LARC method. Available data suggest that general practitioners who feel under-informed about LARC methods are less likely to counsel their patients about these options. The goal of this article is to provide a review of LARC methods to help increase general pediatricians’ comfort in discussing these highly effective methods during all contraception counseling sessions with their teen and young adult patients.