Long-acting reversible contraception take up in Southend

Healthwatch Southend was asked by the local authority's public health team to find out the views and experiences of those who access sexual health services, specifically Long-Acting Reversible Contraception (LARC) to determine how to increase take-up.  They surveyed women and ran two focus groups, speaking to 80 women.

Over four in five respondents had either used or had been offered LARC. 

The most common LARC was the IUS (intrauterine system)or hormonal coil, followed by the contraceptive injection. 

The majority of respondents had used LARC for birth control and were positive about its convenience and offer for long-term protection. Some people used LARC to combat menopausal symptoms. 

The biggest barrier to people choosing LARC was difficulty in finding reliable information to make an informed choice. Other  barriers included fear of pain or discomfort, preference to have a contraceptive method that is more easily reversible, and appointments at unsuitable times.