IUDs? Implants? LARCs? Wait, isn’t that a bird? What do all these mean??
Well, to sum it up, LARC stands for “Long Acting Reversible Contraception”. They’re a longer-lasting form of birth control, the two most common types being the IUD and the implant. You can get them inserted by your doctor, or even at a local clinic, in just a short appointment. With LARCs, you don’t need to worry about birth control – just remember to always use condoms in addition to them! Although they are very effective in pregnancy prevention, only condoms can prevent against STDs.
Many people either haven’t heard of LARCs, or have heard info on them that’s just plain wrong. So in honor of LARC awareness week, we’re going to look at some common myths about LARCs and give you the real facts.
Common Myths + Facts about LARCs
Myth: All types of contraceptives require you to do something on a regular basis to be effective.
Fact: LARCs don’t require you to do anything regularly. One IUD can be effective for between 5 to 12 years, and an implant can work to prevent pregnancy for up to 3 years. No more needing to worry about forgetting to take a pill everyday!
Myth: You need your parent’s consent to get a LARC.
Fact: Many states now let doctors decide whether or not they want to disclose certain information to parents. If you want your records kept private, talk to your doctor to see what can be done.
Myth: LARCs are permanent and irreversible.
Fact: LARCs are reversible and can be removed at any time, letting you get right back to your regular cycle.
Myth: LARCs are so much more expensive than birth control pills.
Fact: LARCs can be expensive, but most young people can get most, or sometimes all, of it covered even if you don’t have insurance, or you don’t want your parents to know. Find a clinic that provides LARCs at low to no cost.
Myth: Birth control pills are the most effective type of contraceptive.
Fact: IUDs and implants are more than 99% effective. Birth control pills, if used perfectly, are also 99% effective, but most people forget to take them every time, making them a lot less successful.
Still not ready to get an implant or IUD?
The pill works great for some people, but if you want something longer-acting, you should also check out the ring, the patch, and the shot to see if any of them are right for you!
And remember, the only way to prevent against STDs is to use condoms! So be sure to use them along with any other type of birth control you end up deciding to use.
For more information on LARCs, check out our birth control page!