
IUD and Implant: More than 99% effective (Less than 1% pregnancies)
Birth control ring: 92% effective (8% pregnancies)
Birth control pill: 91% effective (9% pregnancies)
Condoms: 82% effective (18% pregnancies)
IUDs are tiny T-shaped devices that are inserted into the uterus to release either Progestin or copper directly to it. During a pelvic exam, your gynecologist will insert the IUD into the uterus through the vagina and cervix using a slender plastic tube. There are two types of IUD: Progestin and Copper.
Progestin: Local hormone, 3 or 5 years
Copper: No hormone, 10 years
IUDs prevent the sperm from fertilizing the egg. The progestin IUD thickens cervical mucus and prevents sperm from reaching the egg while the copper IUD inhibits movement of sperm. The progestin IUD also thins the lining of the uterus and is a good option for women and young adults with heavy periods.
Birth control implant is a 4 centimeter, flexible rod that is inserted into the inside of your upper arm and releases progestin into your body. The implant is inserted during a simple office visit through a tiny insertion after numbing the area with a local anesthetic.
Implant: Systemic hormone, 3 years
The birth control implant prevents ovulation, when your ovary releases an egg. Like the progestin IUD, it also thickens cervical mucus and thins uterine lining.
LARC is a suitable option for any woman, but it is currently being vastly underused by a population that could benefit most from it: young women and adolescents. Young women and adolescents are especially recommended to use LARC by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) as well as many other professionals from the scientific community.