Powered by Women First Digital

Vaginal Ring

Vaginal Ring
Vaginal Ring

What is a Vaginal Ring?

The Vaginal Ring, which is also known as, the ‘Vaginal Contraceptive Ring’, ‘ Birth Control Ring’ or the NuvaRing, is a small, bendable ring that a woman can insert in the vagina as a form of contraception. It is 4mm thick and has a diameter of 5.5cm.

It is worn for three weeks, then removed for one week, before starting on another cycle.

Vaginal Ring Effectiveness

With perfect use, the vaginal Ring will prevent pregnancy in 99 out of every 100 women. With typical use or the way most people use it, the ring prevents pregnancy in 93 out of 100 women [1].

How does a vaginal ring work?

The contraceptive ring contains estrogen and progestin, similar to the estrogen and progesterone hormones naturally found in a woman’s body. The ring releases the two hormones which are then absorbed through the wall of the vagina directly into the woman’s bloodstream.

The ring prevents pregnancy in two ways: it releases hormones that prevent ovaries from releasing eggs and thickens your cervical mucus to block sperm from getting to the egg. It protects from pregnancy for one month at a time [2].

Types of Vaginal Rings

There are two main types of Contraceptive Vaginal Rings: non-reusable and reusable Rings.

The non-reusable. Vaginal Ring is disposed of after using it for a single cycle. Examples are NuvaRing and EluRyng, which are prescribed for three weeks of usage.

The reusable Vaginal Ring is also used in the same way as the non-reusable one. However, once it is removed, after three weeks, it is washed with mild water and soap, dried, and stored for seven days. After the seven-day break, it is inserted back into the vagina. It has hormones that can be effective for one year, but that does not mean that it should not be removed for the year. After a year, it is disposed of in the same way that we dispose of the non-reusable ring. A good example is the Annovera contraceptive vaginal ring.

What does a vaginal ring look like?

Contraception Quiz

Need more help choosing your ideal method? Take our contraceptive quiz.

Answer a few simple questions, and based on the responses, we will recommend contraceptive options that could work for you.

Take the quiz
External Condom

Compare with similar Contraceptive Methods

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

Birth Control Ring

Hormonal

What is it?
The vaginal ring is a small, bendable ring that is inserted into the vagina as a form of contraception.
Effectiveness
  • It's 93-99% effective.
  • Pros
    • It can result in regular, less painful, and lighter periods.
    • It has a lower dose of hormones compared to other hormonal contraceptive methods.
    • It doesn’t delay the ability to get pregnant after stopping use.
    Cons
    • It requires regular upkeep as you have to replace it on time, once a month.
    • It doesn’t offer long-lasting protection and is only effective with regular use. It’s worn for three weeks, followed by a week with no ring in place.
    • 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 include headaches, nausea, stomach bloating, sore breasts, weight changes, and vaginitis.
    Contraceptive Patch

    Hormonal

    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.
    Progestin-Only Contraceptive Pill

    Hormonal

    The progestin-only contraceptive pill is a small single-hormone tablet taken to prevent pregnancy.
  • It's 99% effective for breastfeeding women.
  • It's 93% effective for non-breastfeeding women.
    • It has low doses of hormones (progestin only).
    • It can be used by women who smoke and are above 35 years old.
    • It relieves PMS symptoms and period cramps.
    • The most common side effect is a change in bleeding patterns (irregular, prolonged, or no bleeding at all).
    • Other side effects include headaches, dizziness, abdominal pain, sore breasts, mood changes, and nausea.
    • The side effects are not harmful but may be uncomfortable.
    Emergency Contraceptive Pills (Morning After Pill)

    Hormonal

    The emergency contraceptive pill is taken to prevent pregnancy after unsafe sex.
  • It's 99% effective.
    • It’s safe for all women, including those who cannot use a regular hormonal contraceptive method.
    • It doesn’t require a prescription or medical consultation to access it.
    • It doesn’t delay a return to fertility.
    • It’s not easy to hide. It may be found in your bag.
    • It doesn’t provide long-term protection. It offers one-time protection and is only effective when taken within five days of having unprotected sex.
    • It may cause nausea and vomiting, slightly irregular vaginal bleeding, and fatigue. The side effects are not harmful.
    • It’s not recommended for use as a regular contraceptive.
    Combined Oral Contraceptive Pill

    Hormonal

    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.

    Our Monthly Top Articles

    Breast Cancer Warning Symptoms- Don’t Overlook These Sings

    Breast Cancer Warning Symptoms- Don’t Overlook These Sings

    Breast cancer is one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers worldwide, and early detection is key to ensuring the best possible outcomes. Knowing the symptoms of breast cancer empowers individuals ...

    Safe Sex on BookTok: How TikTok Influencers are Shaping the Conversation

    Safe Sex on BookTok: How TikTok Influencers are Shaping the Conversation

    Have you ever wondered why certain books suddenly become bestsellers out of nowhere? Chances are, BookTok is behind it. BookTok is a lively community on TikTok where readers and authors unite to ce...

    Breast Cancer Warning Symptoms- Don’t Overlook These Sings

    Breast Cancer Warning Symptoms- Don’t Overlook These Sings

    Breast cancer is one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers worldwide, and early detection is key to ensuring the best possible outcomes. Knowing the symptoms of breast cancer empowers individuals ...

    Safe Sex on BookTok: How TikTok Influencers are Shaping the Conversation

    Safe Sex on BookTok: How TikTok Influencers are Shaping the Conversation

    Have you ever wondered why certain books suddenly become bestsellers out of nowhere? Chances are, BookTok is behind it. BookTok is a lively community on TikTok where readers and authors unite to ce...

    What to Expect: Your Guide to Common Gynecological Procedures

    What to Expect: Your Guide to Common Gynecological Procedures

    For anyone with a uterus, understanding common gynecological procedures is essential for maintaining reproductive health. Whether it’s your first visit or a routine check-up, being informed a...