Most women can use the Vaginal Ring. If you are healthy, do not smoke, are not overweight, and have no medical reasons for not using the contraceptive ring, you can use it until you reach menopause. The eligibility criteria for the ring are similar to that of the combined oral contraceptive pills. The ring may not be the right method for you if [8]:
you smoke and are over 35 years old (women over 35 who smoke while using the ring face an increase in the risk of certain side effects – it is advised you discuss this with your medical provider)
you are over 50 years old – discuss other options with your doctor;
you have severe migraines with an aura (a bright area of lost vision in the eye before a very bad headache);
you gave birth to up to six weeks ago and are breastfeeding (you can use the contraceptive ring after six months or when breast milk is no longer the main food for your baby);
you have had diabetes for more than 20 years that has affected your arteries, vision, kidneys, or nervous system;
you have or have had breast cancer;
you have had a stroke, blood clot in your leg or lungs, a heart attack, or other serious heart problems;
you have liver cirrhosis, a liver infection, or a liver tumor;
you have gallbladder disease or are on medication for gallbladder treatment; and
you are taking medication for seizures.
If you have any of the above-mentioned conditions, please consult a qualified healthcare provider. You will be advised on the best contraceptive method for you.
Are you wondering if condoms are better than daily pills? Or if you should opt for a birth control implant? We're here to assist you in making this decision. You can select up to 5 contraceptive methods and compare them side by side to weigh the pros and cons of each.
Give a try to our Contraceptive Tool
In the example below, you'll find similar methods to the one you're currently reading about. Feel free to click on any that catch your interest or revisit our Contraceptive Methods page
The patch is a thin, square 5cm Band-Aid-like item containing progestin and estrogen hormones. It's stuck onto the body to prevent pregnancy.
It's 93- 99% effective.
It can result in more regular, lighter, and less painful periods.
It remains effective even when you vomit or have diarrhea.
It doesn’t delay the ability to get pregnant after stopping use.
It’s not easy to hide as it can be seen on your body.
It requires regular upkeep. A new patch is applied each week for three weeks, followed by a week with no patch.”
It doesn’t provide long-lasting protection, and it’s only effective when used properly within each monthly cycle.
The most common side effect is irregular bleeding for the first few months, and then lighter and more regular bleeding may occur.
Other side effects are potential skin irritation, nausea, headaches, breast tenderness, and vaginitis. Side effects are not harmful and will usually ease up after a few months.
The combined oral contraceptive pill is a small tablet with a daily dose of combined hormones, packaged for each month, to prevent pregnancy.
It is 93% - 99% effective.
It’s easily available (no prescription needed).
It gives you control over when to have a period.
It can reduce ovulation pains, premenstrual cramps, and premenstrual syndrome (PMS) symptoms.
It offers long-lasting protection, but it’s only effective with regular daily use.
It’s difficult to hide and may be found by an uncooperative partner!
The most common side effect is a change in bleeding patterns (spotting between periods, lighter bleeding, or no bleeding at all). Some women experience mild headaches, weight changes, and upset stomachs.
The side effects are not harmful and disappear after a few months.
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