Review article
Myths and Misconceptions About Long-Acting Reversible Contraception (LARC)

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jadohealth.2013.02.003Get rights and content

Abstract

Purpose

To discuss common myths and misconceptions about long-acting reversible contraception (LARC) among patients and health care providers.

Methods

We address some of these common myths in an effort to provide clinicians with accurate information to discuss options with patients, parents, and referring providers. The list of myths was created through an informal survey of an online listserv of 200 family planning experts and from the experiences of the authors.

Results

When presented with information about LARC, adolescents are more likely to request LARC and are satisfied with LARC. Clinicians have an important role in counseling about and providing LARC to their adolescent patients as well as supporting them in managing associated side effects.

Conclusions

This review article can be used as a resource for contraceptive counseling visits and for the continuing education of health professionals providing adolescent reproductive health care.

Section snippets

Myth: IUDs cause abortion

IUDs do not terminate a pregnancy. They prevent fertilization. The copper contained in the Paragard IUD is toxic to sperm and ova because of the production of cytotoxic peptides and other inflammatory markers. The levonorgestrel in Mirena increases cervical mucus and suppresses the endometrium [7]. Studies looking for “chemical pregnancies” with urine and serum beta human chorionic gonadotropin analysis in women using hormonal and nonhormonal IUDs have found none [25], [26], [27]. In addition,

Discussion

Female adolescents want and often need LARC. They are more likely to be adherent with LARC and thus avoid unintended pregnancy until they are ready for child-bearing. A recent prospective cohort study of women aged 14 to 45 found that women younger than 21 were twice as likely to have an unintended pregnancy on pills, patch, or ring as older women [98]. Indeed, both the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and Society of Family Planning support the use of LARC in nulliparous and

Acknowledgments

Drs. Russo and Miller have no conflicts of interest to disclose. Dr. Gold is on a speakers bureau for Novartis Pharmaceuticals.

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    Publication of this article was funded by The National Campaign to Prevent Teen and Unplanned Pregnancy.

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