Which contraception methods are known for long-term cost-effectiveness?

• A. Short-acting hormonal methods
• B. Barrier methods are most cost-effective long-term
• C. Long-acting reversible methods such as LNG IUS, copper IUD, and implant.
• D. Sterilization is the only cost-effective method long-term

Answer: (C)

Long-term cost-effectiveness in contraception comes from methods that protect for many years with minimal ongoing costs. Long-acting reversible contraception—the LNG-releasing intrauterine system, copper IUD, and implant—fits this idea best because a single device or procedure provides many years of protection, so the upfront cost is spread over a long period and the ongoing costs are minimal. Their failure rates are low, and you’re less reliant on taking a pill daily or buying supplies per cycle, which lowers the per-year cost compared with short-acting methods or barrier methods.

Short-acting hormonal methods and barrier methods require ongoing purchases and more frequent replacements, which increases cumulative costs over time. Sterilization can be very cost-effective in the long run, but it is permanent and not reversible, which is a different consideration than what the question focuses on. So, the methods known for long-term cost-effectiveness, and particularly favorable due to durability and low ongoing costs, are the LNG IUS, copper IUD, and implant.