P-24 Comparison of One-year continuation of long-acting reversible contraceptives at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation Family Planning Clinic, June 2023– 2024
Author(s):
A Archer, G Corbin, L Harcourt, S Nurse, R Retemyer, M Szala, K Trotman, R Gobin
Type Of Study:
- Descriptive Study
- Observational Study
Year of Presentation:
2026
Objective: To compare uptake and one-year continuation rates among the long-acting reversible contraceptives
(LARCs) methods offered at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) Family Planning Clinic and to
examine reasons for discontinuation.
Methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted among 152 females aged 15–49 years who initiated a LARC at the GPHC Family Planning Clinic between June 2023 and June 2024. Medical records were reviewed for baseline data, and follow-up telephone interviews were conducted at least 12 months post-insertion to determine continuation status and reasons for discontinuation. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize demographic characteristics, contraceptive choice, continuation rates, and discontinuation reasons. Mean duration of use among discontinuers was noted.
Results: Implanon® was the most frequently selected LARC (52.6%), followed by the copper intrauterine device (40.8%) and the Mirena® intrauterine device (6.6%). Most participants were in their peak reproductive years, with 42.8% aged 26–35 years and 38.8% aged 15–25 years. At one year, 65.8% of women had continued LARC use, while 34.2% had discontinued. Mean duration of use among discontinuers was 10.2 ± 4.9 months). The most common reason for discontinuation was side effects (63.5%), followed by medical reasons (13.5%) and unintended pregnancy (9.6%).
Conclusion: LARC users at GPHC demonstrated a clear preference for Implanon®, particularly among younger women. Discontinuation remains substantial and is primarily driven by side effects. Strengthened counseling and early follow-up may improve continuation rates.