What Is A Vaginal Contraceptive Ring?

[lwptoc]

A vaginal ring is a hormonal contraceptive (birth control) device for women. It’s a flexible, latex-free plastic ring that is inserted into the vagina. A vaginal ring comprises the hormones oestrogen and progesterone, which are released over a period of 3 weeks. A vaginal ring is worn for 3 weeks and then removed — paving way for menstruation to occur. A new ring is then inserted after a week.

Types of a vaginal ring

• Combined hormonal vaginal contraceptive ring: The combined hormonal vaginal contraceptive ring is also known as NuvaRing. It is a flexible plastic (ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer) ring, which releases a low dose of progestin and oestrogen over 3 weeks.

• Progesterone only vaginal ring: A progesterone vaginal contraceptive ring has also been developed. It is precisely made for use during breastfeeding as it does not affect milk production.

How vaginal ring works?

A vaginal ring prevents pregnancy by steadily releasing hormones oestrogen and progesterone into the body, which suppresses ovulation — thereby keeping the ovaries from releasing an egg.

The hormones contained in a vaginal ring might also:

• Thicken the cervical mucus to prevent sperm from reaching the egg.
• Thin the lining of the uterus (endometrium) to avert implantation of a fertilized egg.

Vaginal ring use 

A vaginal ring use is very simple. To insert it:

• Wash the hands with soap and water.
• Remove the ring from the foil packet and save the packet.
• Squeeze the sides of the ring together to make it narrow and insert the ring into the vagina.

Removal of a vaginal ring

To remove a vaginal ring:

• Hook the index finger under the edge of the ring or grasp the ring between the index finger and middle finger, and pull it out gently.
• Place the used ring back into the original foil packet and discard. Don’t flush.
• Wait for one week before inserting a new ring. 

Advantages of a vaginal ring.

Some of the benefits of a vaginal ring include:

• Ease of use.
• Safety.
• Effectiveness.
• Doesn’t interrupt sex.
• Likely to ease menstrual cramps and acne.
• It has some bone-strengthening effects.
• There are fewer side effects than oral contraceptives.
• Periods will likely be shorter and lighter.

FAQs 

How effective is the vaginal ring used? 

A vaginal ring use prevents pregnancy at a rate of 96%-99% when used correctly.

Does a vaginal contraceptive ring have side effects?

There are a couple of side effects to vaginal ring use:

• Headache.
• Weight gain.
• Nausea.
• Breast tenderness.
• Vaginal irritation.

Is a vaginal contraceptive ring for everyone? 

Vaginal ring use is not suitable for everyone. A vaginal contraceptive ring should be avoided by the following set of persons:

• Those with a history of blood clots, heart attack or stroke.
• Women suffering from breast cancer or other hormone-sensitive cancers.
• Pregnant women.
• Above 35 years and smoke cigarettes.
• With hepatitis or liver problems.
• Have uncontrolled high blood pressure.
• Have diabetes with complications related to blood vessels.
• Have migraines with aura.
• Are experiencing unexplained vaginal bleeding.

What are the risks of using a vaginal contraceptive ring? 

A vaginal ring use comes with certain complications, for instance:

• Blood clots.
• Heart attack.
• Stroke.
• Toxic shock syndrome.
• Vaginal infection.
• Increased vaginal discharge.
• Depression.
• Decreased sex drive.
• Abdominal pain.
• Diarrhoea.

Why is a vaginal contraceptive ring needed?

A vaginal contraceptive ring helps to prevent pregnancy.