A vaginal ring is a form of contraceptive device. It  is  a flexible, hormone-releasing contraceptive device inserted into the vagina. It provides continuous low-dose hormonal contraception and stands as a better alternative to contraceptive pills.

How does it work?

The vaginal rings releases estrogen and progestin into the body through the vaginal lining. The hormones acts by stopping the release of eggs from the ovaries and influencing the thickness of the cervical mucus to avoid passage of sperm for fertilization.

How are vaginal rings used?

The vaginal ring is worn for a period of 3 weeks after which it is removed for week to allow bleeding. That 1 week interval is refered to as the bleeding week. After this one week, a new vaginal ring is inserted.

How vaginal rings are inserted.

The ring is typically inserted into the vagina by the user herself, much like inserting a tampon.  

-Wash your hands thoroughly with warm water and soap.

-Remove the ring from the packet.

-Squeeze the sides of the ring together so that it becomes narrow.

-Insert the squeezed ring into your vagina.

-It remains in place for three weeks and is then removed for a one-week hormone-free interval, during which menstrual bleeding usually occurs.  

-A new ring is inserted on the same day of the week after the removal week.

If the ring falls out in between the 3 weeks interval, you can rinse it with warm water and re insert under the time frame of 3 hours. If it exceeds 3 hours, use an extra contraceptive method for a week to avoid pregnancy together with the ring.

The ring can fall out during intense pelvic activity like sex or intense bowel movement.

Types of  vaginal rings.

There are 2 major brands of vaginal rings that have been approved for use by the FDA. They include:

NuvaRing: Contains ethinyl estradiol and etonogestrel.  

Annovera: Contains segesterone acetate and ethinyl estradiol, and offers extended use for up to a year.  

Benefits of using vaginal rings.

Convenience: Eliminates the daily pill-taking routine, offering continuous hormone release.  

Effectiveness: When used correctly, it's highly effective at preventing pregnancy, comparable to combined oral contraceptives.  

Hormonal Benefits: Can regulate menstrual cycles, reduce menstrual bleeding, and potentially alleviate symptoms of endometriosis and premenstrual syndrome (PMS).  

Reduced Risk of Certain Cancers: May lower the risk of ovarian and endometrial cancers.

Improved Sex Life: Some women find it more convenient and less disruptive to sexual intimacy than other contraceptive methods.

Demerits of vaginal rings

Ring Discomfort: Some women may experience discomfort or irritation from the ring.  

Vaginal Bleeding: Irregular bleeding or spotting can occur, especially during the first few months of use.  

Potential for Dislodgement: The ring can occasionally dislodge during intercourse or other activities. If this happens, it needs to be reinserted as soon as possible.

Are there risks of using a vaginal ring?

The vaginal ring is a safe mode of contraception. But, just like other modes of contraception, it can increase the risk of blood clotting. This increased risk of blood clotting automatically puts you at a risk of:

-Deep vein thrombosis

-Heart attack

-Pulmonary embolism

-Stroke

Possible side effects of using vaginal rings

Some possible side effects of using vaginal rings include:

-Headaches

-Breast tenderness

-Vaginal discharge

-Cramping

-Nausea

-Decrease in sex drive

The vaginal ring is not an automatic prevention against STIs. The vaginal ring will not stop your period from coming as at when it should. Furthermore, the vaginal ring does not begin to work immediately it is inserted. It only does so when inserted within the first 5 days of your period.

Conclusion.

Before you make use of a vaginal ring, make sure to consult with a health care professional so that they can conduct the necessary tests to ascertain if you are qualified to use a vaginal ring contraceptive. The vaginal ring when used properly has a success rate of about 99.9% proving its effectiveness. When you begin to experience prolonged presentation of the side effects listed above, please call your doctor.