LARC

abbreviation or noun

ˈlärk 

plural LARCs

: a form of birth control (such as an IUD or contraceptive implant) that is usually inserted into and left in the body for an extended period of time (as for several years) : long-acting reversible contraceptive

These devices, often called LARCs, for long-acting reversible contraceptive, change a woman's fertility default. Without a LARC, preventing pregnancy means taking steps like filling prescriptions and remembering to take a pill every day. With one, a woman won't become pregnant until she takes the step of removing it.

—Margot Sanger-Katz

Unlike other forms of birth control, like pills, patches and injectables, LARCs don't require ongoing maintenance. If you know you're likely to forget to take your pill … LARCs may be the best option for you.

—Cleveland Clinic

Less than one out of 100 get pregnant with a LARC—mainly because they take human error out of the equation …

—Allison Batdorff

Examples of LARC in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Abundant evidence shows that teen contraceptive use—including IUDs, long-acting reversible contraception (LARC), oral contraceptives, and condoms—have an excellent safety and efficacy profile if used correctly. —Dr. Scott A. Rivkees, TIME, 15 Aug. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

2005, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

LARC

abbreviation or noun

ˈlärk 

: a form of birth control (such as an IUD or contraceptive implant) that is usually inserted into and left in the body for an extended period of time (as for several years) : long-acting reversible contraceptive