Bridging the Divide White Paper: Long-Acting Reversible Contraception (LARC) in the United States

Authors

Julia Strasser, George Washington UniversityFollow
Liz Borkowski, George Washington University
Megan Couillard, George Washington University
Amy Allina, George Washington University
Susan Wood, George Washington UniversityFollow

Document Type

Report

Publication Date

2016

Publisher

Jacobs Institute of Women's Health

Abstract

Long-acting reversible contraceptive (LARC) methods – specifically, intrauterine devices (IUDs) and subcutaneous hormone-releasing implants – demonstrate great potential in reducing unintended pregnancy. Although LARC methods have had a rocky history in the US and use rates have remained low here in comparison to other countries where the methods are available, there has been a significant increase in uptake of newer LARC products in recent years. Researchers have identified this change as a likely contributor to the declines seen in unintended pregnancy, abortion, and teen pregnancy rates.

Decades of research have shown that current LARC methods are highly safe and effective, yet research has identified many barriers that may prevent a woman who chooses a LARC as the contraceptive method that best meets her needs and preferences from getting it. These include inadequate provider knowledge and training, lack of awareness and education among potential users, and financial and health system barriers. There are also, however, encouraging research findings from assessments of interventions designed to reduce these barriers.

Despite the recent advances, some barriers to full, voluntary, and successful use of LARC methods remain but have the potential to be addressed through policy: implementation of insurance coverage for LARC insertion and removal, both under private plans and public programs, such as Medicaid; development of clinical performance measures for clinicians and/or health centers; and establishment of practices that ensure confidentiality and non-coercive provision of LARC methods, particularly for vulnerable populations.

Comments

This white paper on the current state of LARC evidence and policy has several sections. Click on the links to download additional material.

Recommended Citation

Strasser, Julia; Borkowski, Liz; Couillard, Megan; Allina, Amy; and Wood, Susan, "Bridging the Divide White Paper: Long-Acting Reversible Contraception (LARC) in the United States" (2016). Jacobs Institute of Women's Health. Paper 7.
https://hsrc.himmelfarb.gwu.edu/sphhs_centers_jacobs/7

Open Access

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