28% increase in number of women opting for long-acting reversible contraception methods instead of taking the pill, according to Dublin Well Woman Centre
Rise being attributed to fact that long acting methods are more cost effective and more reliable than the pill
Irish women are increasingly opting for long-acting methods of birth control instead of taking the oral contraceptive pill, according to new figures released by the Dublin Well Woman Centre.
During 2012, the Dublin Well Woman Centre fitted 914 long-acting reversible contraceptive devices (LARCs), such as intrauterine devices (IUDs) and implants, in their three Dublin clinics. This compares to 716 in 2011, representing an increase of approximately 28%.
Unlike ‘the pill’, long-acting reversible contraceptives do not have to be taken on a daily basis thus reducing the rate of failure associated with pills.
LARCs are available in both hormonal and non-hormonal forms and are often used by women who have difficulty remembering to take an oral contraceptive pill correctly or who simply prefer a ‘Fit-and-Forget’ option.
The most popular methods of long-acting reversible contraceptive chosen by women were:
- Mirena Coil – 561 devices fitted
- Implanon – 235 devices fitted
- Copper Coils – 118 devices fitted
Commenting on the increase, Dr Shirley McQuade, Medical Director of the Dublin Well Woman Centre, said: “Long acting reversible methods offer women more convenient and cost effective contraception which are even more reliable than the pill. Depending on the form of LARC chosen, women wishing to avoid an unintended pregnancy can be assured that they are protected for anything between three and ten years.”
“While these methods of contraception have a higher up-front cost when compared to other methods, they work out more cost effective in the long run as they are purchased on a less frequent basis compared to contraceptive pills.”