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Vaginal Ring
What is the vaginal
ring?
The vaginal ring is a
soft flexible piece of plastic that contains synthetic hormones
to be absorbed inside the vagina. It is a hormonal method of
contraception obtained by prescription.
How does the vaginal ring
work?
The vaginal ring works
through synthetic hormones that are absorbed from the vaginal
ring into your reproductive system which help regulate your
fertility similar to the way the natural hormones work. The
vaginal ring prevents pregnancy in one of three
ways:
-
First, it prevents eggs from
being released from the ovaries.
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Second, it thickens the
cervical mucus preventing the sperm from reaching
the egg.
-
Third, it changes the lining of
the uterus preventing implantation. Ethical
Consideration.
How do you use the vaginal
ring?
The vaginal ring is
inserted into your vagina where it remains for three weeks. It
is removed during the fourth week to allow your menstrual
period to occur. At the end of the fourth week the process is
repeated.
How effective is the vaginal
ring?
The vaginal ring has a
failure rate of less than 2% when it is used correctly and
consistently. When it is used correctly less than 2 in 100
women will get pregnant. You should take a pregnancy test if
you are experiencing any pregnancy symptoms.
What are the side effects or health
risks of the vaginal ring?
The vaginal ring has
side effects similar to those experienced by users of oral
contraceptives or other hormonal types of contraception which
include:
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Headaches
-
Dizziness
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Nausea
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Breast tenderness
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Fatigue
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Moderate weight gain
-
Change of appetite
Additional side effects
may include: vaginal bleeding, skin irritation, yeast
infections, contact lens problems, and depression.
The vaginal ring should
not be used by women who:
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Smoke
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Have high blood pressure
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Breast or uterine cancer
-
Have a history of blood
clots
-
Have a history of heart attack
or stroke
-
Are allergic to hormones
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Have diabetes
-
Have liver disease
-
Have unexplained vaginal
bleeding.
When should I contact my healthcare
provider?
Contact your healthcare
provider immediately if you experience any of the
following:
-
Chest pains
-
Redness, swelling, or pain in
your legs
-
Abnormal or irregular vaginal
bleeding
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Jaundice (your skin looks
yellow)
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If you think you might be
pregnant
Women who wish to use
the vaginal ring should seek additional consultation with their
physician if they are experiencing any of the following medical
concerns:
Is the vaginal ring
reversible?
Yes. Ovulation usually
returns within a few days after discontinuing the ring; however
it may take a few months for some women. Pregnancy should be
possible when you stop using the vaginal ring.
How much does the vaginal ring
cost?
There are two fees
associated with the use of the vaginal ring: 1) your doctor's
visit and 2) the supply of vaginal rings.
What about vaginal ring and sexually
transmitted diseases (STD's)?
The vaginal ring does
NOT provide protection against the transmission of sexually
transmitted diseases.
Frequently Asked Questions About the
Vaginal Ring:
When does the
vaginal ring begin to work? The vaginal ring begins to
work immediately, but a second form of birth control should be
used during the first seven days of your first month's use of
the vaginal ring.
Can I use the
vaginal ring when I am breastfeeding? If you have
recently been pregnant or if you are breastfeeding, it is best
to consult your physician for the best time to start using the
ring.
What do I do if
the ring comes out? If the ring comes out, it is best
to replace it right away. If you do this within 3 hours, no
back up method should be necessary.
Where does the
ring need to go? The exact position of the ring in the
vagina is not vital to it's effectiveness, but read your
instructions carefully to understand where the ring should be
placed.
What are the pros and cons of the
vaginal ring?
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