Session 3: Overview of Long-Acting Reversible Contraceptives (LARCs)
- Updated 9/1/2021
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Overview
This session discusses the basic attributes of long-acting reversible contraceptive (LARC) methods and how to use the WHO Medical Eligibility Criteria (MEC) for Contraceptive Use Wheel / App and Quick Reference Chart in recommending safe and effective contraception methods for clients with medical conditions.
Objectives
By the end of this unit, participants will:
- Define the terms family planning, contraception, and healthy timing and spacing of pregnancies.
- Describe basic attributes of LARC methods.
- Demonstrate and practice the use of the WHO Medical Eligibility Criteria (MEC) for Contraceptive Use Wheel / App and Quick Reference Chart in recommending safe and effective contraception methods for clients with medical conditions.
Timing & Methodology
Total: 90 minutes (1 hour, 30 minutes)
- 20 minutes: Group Discussion: Definition of Terms
- 40 minutes: Facilitator Presentation: Contraceptive Technology Updates for LARC Methods
- 30 minutes: Case Studies and Group Discussion: Review of Medical Eligibility Criteria
Preparation
- Print, download, and gather materials
- Prepare one flip chart for each: the different conditions for when IUDs can and cannot be inserted and when implants can and cannot be inserted
- Become familiar with the MEC Wheel, MEC App, and MEC Quick Reference Chart. Note the differences, including applications for use
Prepare for MEC Training
Either resource can be used for this training:
Resources Available Online
- Refer to the Facilitator’s Guide for the Detailed Session Guide and list of materials needed for this unit
- Presentation
- Participant Workbook
You can order fully constructed MEC Wheels from WHO; print MEC Wheel components for assembly by the program, the trainer, or as an activity with the provider; and if both are not feasible, explore using the App as an alternative.
- Prepare a flip chart showing the four MEC categories
- Review practice scenarios in the workbook. If you would like to provide additional scenarios relevant to your context, print and cut out copies of new scenarios for participants
New App for Who’s Medical Eligibility Criteria for Contraceptive Use
WHO has launched an App for its Medical Eligibility Criteria for Contraceptive Use. This digital tool will facilitate the task of family planning providers in recommending safe, effective, and acceptable contraception methods for women with medical conditions or medically relevant characteristics.
Medical Eligibility Criteria for Contraceptive Use
The World Health Organization (WHO) develops detailed criteria that health care workers can follow to determine which contraceptive methods are medically suitable for their clients. These criteria are based on the most current scientific knowledge about the effectiveness, risks and benefits of various family planning methods, and they can help providers guide their clients in making safe and informed decisions. WHO periodically revises the criteria in response to recommendations made by an expert working group in response to new research findings.