Vaginal ring

Vaginal ring is a type of birth control that is inserted into the vagina to prevent pregnancy. It is a flexible, plastic ring that releases a low dose of a progestin and estrogen over three weeks.

Mechanism of Action

The vaginal ring works by releasing hormones into your body. The hormones prevent your ovaries from releasing eggs and thicken your cervical mucus to help block sperm from getting to the egg in the first place.

Usage

The vaginal ring is used once a month. It is inserted into the vagina and left in place for three weeks. After three weeks, it is removed for a one-week break, during which a menstrual period usually occurs. A new ring is inserted one week after the last one was removed.

Effectiveness

The vaginal ring is most effective when it is used exactly as directed. It is approximately 91% effective with typical use, which means that about 9 out of 100 women will get pregnant each year if they don't always use the ring as directed.

Side Effects

Some women may experience side effects with the vaginal ring, such as nausea, breast tenderness, and irregular bleeding. Serious side effects are rare.

Advantages and Disadvantages

Advantages of the vaginal ring include its ease of use, its effectiveness, and the fact that it is reversible. If a woman decides she wants to become pregnant, she can simply stop using the ring.

Disadvantages include the need to remember to insert and remove the ring at the right times, and the potential for side effects.

See Also

• Birth control
• Contraception
• Hormonal contraception

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