Contraception - Long acting reversible contraception (LARC)

Not all contraceptives have to be taken every day or each time you have sex. Long-acting reversible contraception is contraception that, once in place, is effective for months or years.

At 99%, they are more effective than any other form of contraception.

Contraceptive implant

A small, flexible rod is put under the skin of your upper arm. It releases the hormone progestogen. It stops ovulation (releasing an egg), thickens cervical mucus to stop sperm reaching an egg, and thins the lining of the uterus (womb) to prevent a fertilised egg implanting. It works for up to three years.

Visit NHS 111 Wales for further information on the contraceptive implant.

Intra uterine copper device (IUCD) or “Coil”

A small plastic and copper device is put into the uterus (womb), sometimes called the ‘coil’ or the ‘copper coil’. The copper prevents sperm from surviving and alters cervical mucus to prevent sperm from reaching an egg. An IUCD may also stop a fertilised egg implanting in the uterus.

There are different types of IUCD, to suit different people. An IUCD can stay in for 5-10 years, depending on the type. Some types of IUCD can be left until menopause if fitted after age 40.

For information on how to access this procedure in your area please contact your local sexual health clinic, or you can ask at your GP.

Visit NHS 111 Wales for more information on the IUCD.

Intra uterine system (IUS)

A small, T-shaped plastic device, which releases the hormone progestogen, is put into the uterus (womb). This thins the lining of the uterus to prevent a fertilised egg implanting and thickens cervical mucus to prevent sperm reaching an egg. They can last for up to 5 years but can be removed at any time.

For information on how to access this procedure in your area please contact your local sexual health clinic, or you can ask at your GP.

Visit NHS 111 Wales for further information on the IUS.

Contraceptive injection

It releases the hormone progestogen which stops ovulation (releasing an egg), thickens cervical mucus to prevent sperm reaching an egg, and thins the lining of the uterus (womb) to prevent a fertilised egg implanting.

The injection can’t be removed from the body so any side effects may continue for as long as it works and for some time afterwards.

Visit NHS 111 Wales for further information on the contraceptive injection.

Page last reviewed: 19th June 2025