Cost-Effectiveness of Long-Acting Reversible Contraceptive Methods in the UK

Jun 26, 2026

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Long-acting reversible contraceptive (LARC) methods prevent unintended pregnancy with high effectiveness, yet uptake remains low in many developed settings. This study evaluates cost-effectiveness from the UK National Health Service (NHS) perspective using a decision-analytic model comparing copper IUD, LNG-IUS, the etonogestrel implant, and DMPA with combined oral contraceptives and female sterilization. LARC methods dominated oral contraceptives, while sterilization dominated beyond 5 years. Discontinuation strongly influenced outcomes.

LanguageEnglish

CategoryResearch & Report

FormatPDF

Pages8

Reading Time20 min

Background

Methods

Results

Conclusions

Introduction

FAQs

What is the primary goal of the study?

To assess the cost-effectiveness of LARC methods in the UK NHS using a decision-analytic model.

Which contraceptive methods were compared in the economic analysis?

Copper IUD, LNG-IUS, the etonogestrel subdermal implant, and DMPA were compared, alongside combined oral contraceptive pills and female sterilization.

What were the main results regarding cost-effectiveness?

LARC methods dominated combined oral contraception (more effective and less costly), but female sterilization dominated LARC methods after 5 years of protection. Implant and IUD ordering depended on time horizon, with discontinuation affecting cost-effectiveness.

Jun 26, 2026

Upload by Jiven