Programs should offer a sustainable, well-balanced range of contraceptive methods that will allow clients to choose the method that best suits their needs. Making long-acting and permanent methods (LA/PMs) available is particularly important. This group of methods includes implants, IUDs, female sterilization, and vasectomy. These are the most effective and cost-effective contraceptives, and they require little action by the client. Despite these advantages, they are often difficult for clients to access and are not used as widely as other methods. Because LA/PMs are highly effective, their wider availability and use would reduce fertility rates more than would wider use of most other methods. Also, countries would be able to meet their reduced fertility goals more cost-effectively.

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