Long term contraceptives

The search for long-term contraceptive methodsmainly by women who do not want to have children or those who do not plan to become pregnant in the coming years but do not wish to undergo irreversible processes.

In addition to the particular benefits of each method, long-term contraceptives eliminate forgetfulness as a factor of failure in the effectiveness of pregnancy prevention. On the other hand, the main disadvantage of these methods is that they do not prevent against sexually transmitted diseases.


It is important to emphasize that to make use of long-term contraceptives You need to go through a medical evaluation to know the options and, together with the gynecologist, evaluate which one is right for you.

There are currently three long-term contraceptive types: copper IUD, levonorgestrel releasing IUD and subcutaneous implant, respectively:


Copper IUD

What it is and how it works

O Copper IUD It is a small piece of plastic that is inserted into a woman's womb. O copper intrauterine device It has a spermicidal effect, destroying sperm and preventing them from becoming fertilized through the action of copper wires.

Useful information


  • Amount: $ 70 to $ 100 (without insertion)
  • Duration: between five and ten years depending on the amount of copper
  • Effectiveness: 97% to 99%
  • Advantages: Can be used by women who have never become pregnant, can be removed at any time and return to fertility occurs in a short period of time. It can also be used during breastfeeding.
  • Disadvantages: Increased menstrual flow and cramping may occur, may not be used when pregnant or suspected, nor in the presence or suspicion of uterine tumors, uterine malformation or vaginal bleeding of unknown cause.

Levonorgestrel releasing IUD (Mirena)

What it is and how it works

O Levonorgestrel releasing IUD, marketed as Mirena, is similar to copper IUDs, but does not have copper covers but a device containing 52 mg of the hormone levonorgestrel. This synthetic hormone is released in small doses over five years and goes straight into the bloodstream. Its action is similar to that of pill contraceptives, but with less hassle.

Useful information

  • Amount: $ 800 to $ 1,000 (without insertion)
  • Duration: up to five years
  • Efficacy: 99% under normal use
  • Advantages: Reduces or even interrupts the menstrual cycle, can be used to control excessive menstrual bleeding, can be removed at any time and fertility returns immediately.
  • Disadvantages: May cause headache or migraine, irregular bleeding, abdominal pain, breast tenderness and prevents the use of tampons. It is contraindicated in cases of pregnancy, undiagnosed vaginal bleeding, past pelvic infection or current infections (cervix, fallopian tubes or uterus) and suspected malignancies.

Subcutaneous Implant (Implanon)

What it is and how it works

O subcutaneous implant, marketed as Implanon, is a progesterone - like synthetic hormone microbasin that should be implanted in the forearm with local anesthesia through a microsurgery. The microbaston can be felt through the skin. This hormone acts in inhibiting ovulation by preventing pregnancy.

Useful information

  • Value: around R $ 500 (without insertion)
  • Duration: up to three years
  • Effectiveness: 99%
  • Advantages: It is discreet and ideal for women who cannot or do not want to insert intrauterine devices.
  • Disadvantages: May cause irregularity or disappearance of menstruation, mood swings, acne or weight gain. Its insertion leaves a small scar.

Remember that all these long-term contraceptive methods they should be placed exclusively by the doctor, never at home and may also require periodic control.

Long Acting Methods of Contraception (February 2024)


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