The Vaginal Rings Side effects are not signs of illness, and most of them will usually decrease or disappear within the first few months of using the pill. Some women do not even experience them at all. Commonly reported side effects include:
- changes in the user’s bleeding patterns (irregular or infrequent bleeding, lighter or fewer days of bleeding, or no periods at all – the light bleeding between periods is nothing to worry about);
- headaches;
- nausea and vomiting;
- bloating;
- sore breasts;
- changes in weight;
- improvement or worsening of acne;
- swelling of the ankles due to water retention;
- mood changes; and
- vaginitis (irritation, redness, or inflammation of the vagina).
Things that may last longer:
- a change in sex drive;
- increased vaginal discharge, irritation, or infection; and
- a possible increase in blood pressure. If you are using the contraceptive ring, you are advised to have your blood pressure checked every few months. If the increase caused by the ring becomes too high, it is advisable to stop usage. The pressure will usually decline after you stop [7].
Vaginal Ring Complications
Very rare
Women using the contraceptive ring may have a slightly increased risk of developing a blood clot (thrombosis). This clot can cause blockages in the veins, and lead to deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism, or in the arteries, and end up causing a heart attack or stroke. This will usually happen during the first year of using the vaginal ring.
You should immediately see your doctor if you experience any of the following:
- a severe headache, or migraine;
- breathing difficulties;
- painful swelling of your leg;
- a feeling of numbness or weakness in the arm or leg;
- sudden problems with your speech or sight;
- coughing up blood;
- chest pains, especially if it hurts to breathe in;
- severe abdominal pain; and
- unexplained fainting or a collapse.
These symptoms may be a sign of a blood clot.
Extremely rare
- Stroke.
- Heart attack.
If, after three months, you feel the side effects are more than you can accept, switch methods and stay protected. Condoms will usually offer good protection while you find a method that suits your needs. Remember, the contraceptive ring does not protect you from sexually transmitted diseases.
