Which contraception provides protection for up to five years when placed in the uterus and releases levonorgestrel?

Which contraception provides protection for up to five years when placed in the uterus and releases levonorgestrel?

• A. NuvaRing
• B. Levonorgestrel intrauterine system
• C. Spermicidal suppositories
• D. Levonorgestrel implant

Answer: (B)

Long-acting, reversible contraception that is placed in the uterus and releases a progestin is the levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system. This small T-shaped device sits in the uterus and continuously releases levonorgestrel for about five years, providing highly effective pregnancy prevention with the added benefit of often lighter or less painful periods. The other options don’t fit this description: a vaginal ring is inserted in the vagina and used monthly, not as a long-term intrauterine device; spermicidal suppositories are short-acting barrier methods requiring frequent application; and the levonorgestrel implant is a subcutaneous arm implant, not placed in the uterus, and typically lasts around three years.

Long-acting, reversible contraception that is placed in the uterus and releases a progestin is the levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system. This small T-shaped device sits in the uterus and continuously releases levonorgestrel for about five years, providing highly effective pregnancy prevention with the added benefit of often lighter or less painful periods. The other options don’t fit this description: a vaginal ring is inserted in the vagina and used monthly, not as a long-term intrauterine device; spermicidal suppositories are short-acting barrier methods requiring frequent application; and the levonorgestrel implant is a subcutaneous arm implant, not placed in the uterus, and typically lasts around three years.