The Vaginal Ring

The vaginal ring is a relatively new form of contraception. It is approximately 5cm wide, and is a soft flexible ring that is inserted into the vagina for 21 days at a time to provide protection against pregnancy. It contains the same hormones as the combine contraceptive pill, and works to prevent pregnancy in a similar way. The hormones are released in a constant dose through the vaginal wall into the blood.

How does the vaginal ring work?

The vaginal ring will be effective immediately if it is placed into the vagina on the first day of your period. If you insert it at any other point during your cycle, you will need to use a backup method of contraception, such as condoms, for seven days.

The ring is held in place by the vaginal wall muscles. It releases the hormones steadily, which work to prevent pregnancy by first stopping an egg from being released from the ovaries (ovulation). The hormones also thicken the cervical mucous to stop any sperm from reaching the womb and makes it impossible for an egg to attach itself and grow.

Is it as effective as other methods of contraception?

If used correctly, the vaginal ring is over 99% effective in preventing pregnancy.

Are there any benefits?

The biggest benefit of the vaginal ring is the fact that it is so convenient. It is easy to put in and take out and it can then be left in place for three weeks. This means you have round-the-clock protection from pregnancy without needing to interrupt sex or take a pill every day. The effectiveness of the vaginal ring doesn't change if you have stomach problems or diarrhoea, which is often the case with oral contraceptive pills.

Most women will find that the ring makes their periods lighter and also less painful. It also helps to relieve pre-menstrual symptoms. Some evidence suggests that it may reduce the risk of some cancers, as well as fibroids, non-cancerous breast disease and ovarian cysts.

Should I be worried about side effects?

Like all treatments and medications available on prescription, the vaginal ring does contain a risk of side effects. If they do occur, the likelihood is that they will be mild and will not last for very long. Such effects could include:

• Nausea
• Headaches
• Changes in mood
• Breast tenderness
• Increased vaginal discharge
• Breakthrough bleeding or spotting

More serious side effects are very rare, and you should contact your doctor immediately if you experience:

• Chest pains
• Migraines or severe headaches
• Blurred or sudden loss of vision
• Severe leg pain
• Severe abdominal pains

Are some people more at risk of side effects?

The vaginal ring is safe and effective for most women but there are some risk groups who will not be suitable for this treatment. If there is a history of thrombosis in your family, if you are a smoker or are overweight or if you have reduced mobility, it is unlikely that the vaginal ring will be prescribed to you.

You should also be aware that there is a higher risk of arterial thrombosis in smokers, diabetics, overweight people and those with high blood pressure. People who suffer migraines with aura are also at risk.