Long-acting reversible contraception

By Mayo Clinic Staff

If you know you want to become pregnant someday — just not anytime soon — long-acting reversible contraception may be a good choice. Long-acting reversible contraception provides effective birth control with little day-to-day hassle.

Options for long-acting reversible contraception include:

  • An intrauterine device (Mirena, ParaGard, Skyla, others)
  • A contraceptive implant (Nexplanon)
  • A contraceptive injection (Depo-Provera)

You need a prescription from your doctor for this type of birth control. Besides its effectiveness and ease of use, long-acting reversible contraception allows for a return to fertility once you stop using the contraception. With the intrauterine device and contraceptive implant, the return to fertility is prompt. With the contraceptive injection, return to fertility may take a little longer.

The intrauterine device or contraceptive implant requires a visit to your doctor for removal if you decide you no longer want to use this type of birth control.

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Feb. 09, 2023

See also

  1. Preejaculation fluid and pregnancy
  2. Birth control options
  3. Birth control pill FAQ
  4. Can birth control pills cause birth defects?
  5. Breastfeeding and medications
  6. Choosing a birth control pill
  7. Delaying your period with hormonal birth control
  8. Extended-cycle birth control pills and spotting
  9. Ovulation signs
  10. Rhythm method for natural family planning
  11. Sperm life span