Determinants of long-acting reversible contraceptive (LARC) use by adolescent girls and young women

Objectives To identify factors relevant for adolescents and young women in their selection of a contraceptive method and reasons for acceptance or rejection of long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARCs). Method Questionnaire survey among 194 women attending an integrated young people service. Results Compared to the number of those who had heard about all LARCs (71%), the number of respondents who had used a LARC was low (28%). Awareness of intrauterine methods was the lowest, compared to other LARCs. High efficacy, protection against sexually transmitted infections and non interference with sex were the three most important factors when choosing a contraceptive method, whereas the possibility of altering the menstrual pattern and reversibility were not considered important. Qualities of LARCs such as reliability and long duration of action would encourage young women to accept LARCs. Knowledge of peers' good experience with a LARC fosters, but fear of pain and needle (most obvious for intrauterine methods) restrains use of these methods. Conclusions Despite reliability and long-term use being important advantages, fear of pain and needles make LARCs less appealing to young people. Current LARCs meet some, but not all expectations of adolescents and young women.