The vaginal ring is a thin, colorless, flexible ring that is inserted into the vagina for 3 weeks and is then removed for 1 week while the woman has her period. Low doses of estrogen and progestin are continuously released from the ring, which is replaced monthly. Like birth control pills, the vaginal ring is 99% effective at preventing pregnancy, though its effectiveness decreases if used improperly.

The Advantages

Advantages of the ring include:

• Only needs to be changed once a month
• Is easy to insert and remove
• Does not require a visit to the doctor for insertion or removal
• Does not interrupt sexual activity
• May have less spotting or irregular bleeding compared with birth control pills
• May reduce the possibility of migraines in some women

The Disadvantages

Disadvantages of the ring include:

• Does not protect against sexually transmitted infections, including HIV/AIDS
• Requires a prescription
• Potential side effects include:
  • Vaginal infections and irritation
  • Weight gain
  • Headaches
  • Lightheadedness
  • Breast tenderness
  • Fatigue
  • Nausea

Some serious side effects of hormonal contraceptives like the vaginal ring include blood clots in the legs, lungs, stroke, and heart attack. Smoking increases these risks. These risks are similar to many other types of hormonal contraception. Talk to your doctor about all possible side effects.

Precautions

Certain drugs, such as antibiotics, antiseizure drugs, tuberculosis (TB) medications, and migraine medications can affect the effectiveness of the vaginal ring. The herb St. John's Wort can also interfere with effectiveness of this ring. Talk to your doctor about all of the medications and supplements you are taking.

If any of the following symptoms occur while you are wearing the vaginal ring, contact your doctor right away:

• Severe abdominal pain or headaches
• Chest pain or shortness of breath
• Blurred vision
• Severe leg or arm pain or numbness
• Redness and swelling in legs
• Skin appears yellow in color
• You fail to have a regular period

Do not use the vaginal ring if you might be pregnant or are breastfeeding. It is also not advised for women with the following health concerns:

• Blood clots
• Severe high blood pressure
• Certain cancers
• History of heart attack or stroke
• Smoking

Other Things You Should Know About Vaginal Rings

• Storing the ring—The ring should be stored at room temperature (no more than 77°F) and away from direct sunlight.
• Taking the ring out—If the ring slips out of the vagina, simply wash it off with cold to lukewarm water (not hot) and reinsert it. The ring can be taken out during sex as long as it is not out for more than 3 hours. In which case, a back up method of birth control should be used for 7 days.
• Pricing—The ring costs about $15-$80 at the pharmacy.
• Switching from other forms of birth control—You can switch directly to a vaginal ring from other hormonal methods of birth control. Talk to your doctor for details.