Vaginal Contraceptive Ring

The vaginal ring prevents the ovaries from releasing an egg each month (ovulation). It also changes the lining of the uterus making it difficult for an egg to attach itself, and it changes the mucus in the cervix making it harder for sperm to enter the uterus.

Anyone seeking a reliable and reversible method of birth control that does not require daily attention.  It is important to consult a healthcare provider, as the vaginal ring should not be used if you have certain health conditions. 

The vaginal ring is made to release a steady amount of hormones over a 21-day period followed by a seven-day ring-free period. Each ring is used for one cycle and then removed and discarded.

Insert a vaginal ring into your vagina and keep it in place for three weeks in a row. Remove the vaginal ring and after seven days, insert a new ring.  Your period should begin during the ring-free week. The vaginal ring should be left in place during sex and is usually not felt by either partner. It can be used with condoms and tampons.

• To insert: After washing your hands, squeeze the vaginal ring in the middle between the thumb and the index finger and insert it into the vagina as far as it will go. The exact placement is not important for the vaginal ring to work and the muscles of the vagina should keep the ring in place.
• To remove: Put a finger into the vagina and pull it out.  Put the used ring in the foil pouch it came in and then in the garbage, not in the toilet. 

On rare occasions, the vaginal ring can slip out. This can happen if the ring is not properly inserted, if you strain for bowel movements (stool) or sometimes during sex. 

If your vaginal ring slips out, follow the instructions included in your vaginal ring package, or visit Stay on Schedule for more information.   

Advantages:

• Convenient, once a month and discreet
• Decreased cramping and menstrual bleeding
• Improved cycle control
• Reduced risk of ovarian and endometrial cancer
• Can reduce acne

Possible side effects (will likely resolve within the first three months):

• Irregular bleeding
• Nausea
• Headaches
• Sore breasts
• Vaginal irritation with whitish vaginal discharge

Possible complications:

Individuals who have any of these symptoms while on the vaginal ring should go to the hospital immediately:

Abdominal pain (severe pain or lump in the abdomen)

Chest pain or shortness of breath

Headache (severe) with dizziness, weakness or numbness

Eye problems (vision loss or blurred vision) or speech problems

Severe leg pain or numbness (calf or thigh)