ring
Whats on this page
- What is the Ring?
- How effective is the ring?
- Are there birth control ring side effects?
- How safe is the ring?
- How do I use the ring?
- What do I do if I make a mistake with the ring?
- How do I get the ring?
- What are the benefits of the ring?
- What are the disadvantages of the ring?
- Are there different types of birth control rings?
What is the Ring?
A birth control ring is a small, flexible ring that is inserted into the vagina to prevent pregnancy. It continuously releases hormones—estrogen and progestin to preventing ovulation, thicken cervical mucus and thinning the uterine lining
How effective is the ring?
91-93%
Are there birth control ring side effects?
Vaginal irritation or discharge Headaches, nausea, or breast tenderness (similar to other hormonal contraceptives) Mood changes or low libido in some users
How safe is the ring?
Ring expulsion is rare, and most users and their partners find it highly acceptable. The way it works, its effectiveness, and its side effects are similar to those of combined oral contraceptives (COCs). Continuous use of the ring has been studied and shows similar results to continuous use of COCs.
How do I use the ring?
It's placed in the vagina for 21 days, then removed for up to 7 days to allow withdrawal bleeding. After this ring-free interval, a new ring (Nuvaring) or a reused one (Annovera) is inserted
What do I do if I make a mistake with the ring?
If the delay is less than 48 hours: Insert the ring as soon as possible. Keep the ring in until the scheduled removal day. No additional contraceptive protection is needed. Emergency contraception is usually not needed but may be considered (except UPA) if the delay happened earlier in the cycle or during the last week of the previous cycle. If the delay is 48 hours or more: Insert the ring as soon as possible. Keep the ring in until the scheduled removal day. Avoid sexual intercourse or use barrier methods (e.g., condoms) until the ring has been used for 7 consecutive days. If the ring removal happened during the third week of use: Skip the hormone-free week by finishing the third week and starting a new ring immediately. If unable to start a new ring immediately, avoid sexual intercourse or use barrier methods until a new ring has been used for 7 consecutive days. Emergency contraception should be considered (except UPA) if the delay happened within the first week of ring use and unprotected sexual intercourse occurred during the previous 5 days. Emergency contraception may also be considered (except UPA) at other times as appropriate.
How do I get the ring?
Requires prescription
What are the benefits of the ring?
Easy to use Can be used for three weeks (Nuvaring) or a year (Annovera) Fast reversibility
What are the disadvantages of the ring?
Must wear the ring for 3 weeks which might not be comfortable for some users No STI Protection
Are there different types of birth control rings?
Three are available in USA with different duration of use 3 weeks (nuvaring, eluryng) or 1 year (annovera)