13 December 2017

Long-acting reversible contraceptives safe and effective, say Australian

The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGGP) reassures Australian women that long-acting reversible contraceptives, such as Implanon and Mirena, are considered safe and effective.

RACGP President Dr Bastian Seidel said he was concerned about recent media reports, which question the safety of long-acting reversible contraceptives, and urged anyone with concerns to speak to their GP.

“I would like to reassure Australian women who are currently using these devices that they have been thoroughly tested to ensure they are considered safe and effective,” Dr Seidel said.

“The RACGP is not aware of any TGA warning regarding these devices, nor any report suggesting increased adverse event rates.”

Dr Seidel said some patients might have concerns stemming from reading misleading information on long-acting reversible contraceptives.

“I encourage anyone with any doubts about the form of contraceptive they, or their family member, are using to speak to their GP about their concerns,” Dr Seidel said.

“Your GP will offer specific advice to your individual needs and circumstances.”

Dr Seidel said the RACGP supports women in their contraceptive choices, and advocates for a wide variety of well-tested contraceptive options be available to all women.

“All contraceptive choices have benefits and risks, and it is important to have contraception suited to each woman."

The RACGP is an independent organisation and receives no funding from any contraceptive maker.


Media enquiries

Journalists and media outlets seeking comment and information from the RACGP can contact John Ronan, Ally Francis and Stuart Winthrope via:

Advertising

Advertising