LARC IUD

Long acting reversible contraception (LARC) covers methods that work for several years after a single fitting. The copper intrauterine device (IUD) sits within this group. It is a T-shaped device placed inside the uterus by a clinician, where copper ions interfere with sperm motility and fertilisation. A copper IUD provides contraception for 5 to 10 years depending on the device, and the NHS reports it as more than 99% effective. The copper IUD contains no hormones, which suits patients who cannot use oestrogen or progestogen. Fitting takes place in general practice and sexual health clinics, and the device is removable at any point by a clinician if a patient wishes to conceive or change method. Merlin Medical stocks copper IUDs including the Novaplus T380 and Neo-Safe T CU 380, with UK dispatch for primary care teams.