Researchers say the use of long-acting, reversible contraceptives has doubled over the last decade.

The use of devices such as the IUD and contraceptive implant between 2006 and 2018 has been investigated by Australian researchers.

They found increases for the implant were highest among the 15-19 and 20-24 age groups, while increases for IUDs were highest among the 35-39 and 40-44 age groups.

It is estimated that in 2018, 10.8 per cent of women aged 15 to 44 were using a long-acting reversible contraceptive; 4.5 per cent for the implant and 6.3 per cent for the levonorgestrel intrauterine systems (IUS).

The experts say that knowing who prefers which contraceptive is important, as this can help encourage and improve uptake for effective contraceptive measures.

The study is accessible here.