The IUD Rumor Mill: Common Misconceptions
Long-acting reversible contraception (LARC), which includes both subcutaneous implants and intrauterine devices (IUDs), is the most effective form of contraception. Nurse practitioners and physician assistants who are knowledgeable about IUDs and can anticipate the concerns of patients and other providers are well-positioned to increase IUD use. This may help decrease the number of unplanned pregnancies in the United States.
Around the world, rates of IUD usage are high; for instance, rates in Uzbekistan are 50%, in Vietnam 31%, in China 41%, in Egypt 36%, and in Finland 23%.1 However, in the United States, only 5.2% of women of reproductive age use IUDs.1 This is despite the fact that methods of LARC are the most effective form of birth control aside from abstinence and have an efficacy rate of more than 99%.2 Like vasectomy and female sterilization, methods of LARC are rated Tier 1, the most effective form of contraception, by the World Health Organization and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.3