Prescription rates of the contraceptive implant in Australia 2008-2012: Impact of patient age and area of residence

Abstract

Background Long-acting reversible contraceptives are an effective means of preventing unwanted pregnancies and associated negative consequences. The Sexual Health and Family Planning Association of Australia has called for efforts to address barriers to the uptake of long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARCs) in Australia, where LARC uptake is thought to be low, though comprehensive data describing use and associated factors is scarce. The aims of this study were to describe patterns of prescriptions for the etonogestrel-releasing subdermal implant (SDI) in Australia, 2008-2012, and associated factors. Methods: Records of prescriptions written through Australia's Pharmaceutical Benefits S..