Year: 2025
Type: review
Abstract: Long-acting reversible contraceptive methods, including the contraceptive implant and intrauterine devices, are highly effective and cost-effective options for women who have no specific contraindications.Long-acting reversible contraceptives are more effective at reducing unintended pregnancy than short-acting contraceptives.Short-acting contraceptive methods consist of combined hormonal contraception (e.g. the combined oral contraceptive pill, vaginal ring), progestogen-only pills, and the progestogencontaining contraceptive injection.Choice of contraception is based on factors such as medical eligibility (i.e.precautions, contraindications), patient preference and reproductive life stage.Counselling patients on the benefits and risks of all contraceptive methods is important for informed decision-making.Regular contraceptive review can allow for patient education and monitoring of adverse effects.continuing unintended pregnancies are associated with poorer maternal and child outcomes.8 Increased LARC uptake results in a lower rate of unintended pregnancies and abortions, reducing the associated risks.9 The high effectiveness of LARCs in preventing unintended pregnancy makes them the most costeffective forms of reversible contraception.10,11 Providing education around the range of contraceptive options, as well as removing barriers to access, is key to improving reproductive autonomy.There is good evidence that when barriers such as access and cost are removed, and the contraceptive and non-contraceptive effects of LARCs are explained, women are more likely to choose LARCs.9,10 This article provides an update on long-and shortacting contraceptive methods in Australia.The article also discusses the factors influencing choice of contraception, management of adverse effects, contraceptive considerations for different population groups, and means to increase contraceptive accessibility.Clinicians should be aware of barrier, permanent and other nonpharmacological forms of contraception, as well as emergency contraception, which are not discussed in this article.This article focuses on contraceptive advice relevant for people with a uterus.While the word 'women' is occasionally used, the authors recognise that this information may be relevant to people with a range of gender identities.
Source: Australian Prescriber
Authors: Emma Mason, Kirsten Black
Institution: The University of Sydney
Language: English
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W4411139432