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What is a vaginal ring?

A vaginal ring, or birth control ring, is a hormonal birth control method to prevent pregnancy. It’s a small, flexible ring that’s worn inside your vagina. The ring releases estrogen and progestin into your body through your vaginal lining. These two hormones work together to prevent pregnancy by:

• Stopping your ovaries from releasing an egg.
• Changing your cervical mucus to prevent sperm from reaching an egg.

A vaginal ring is worn for three weeks, then removed for one week to allow bleeding to occur. When used properly, it’s a highly effective form of birth control.

How does a vaginal ring work for birth control?

A birth control ring works by slowly releasing estrogen and progestin into your body. You wear the ring inside your vagina and absorb the hormones through your vaginal lining. Estrogen prevents ovulation, which means you don’t release an egg for sperm to fertilize. Progestin thickens the mucus around your cervix which makes it harder for sperm to get inside. It also thins the lining of your uterus, so a fertilized egg can’t implant itself.

You will place the ring in your vagina for 21 days (three weeks and then take it out for one week). Once the week is over (seven days), you insert a new vaginal ring and a new cycle begins.

A healthcare provider must prescribe a vaginal ring.

Who should not use a vaginal ring for birth control?

Using a vaginal ring can carry some health risks. You should avoid using the ring if you:

• Smoke and are over age 35.
• Have blood clots.
• Have had breast, uterine or liver cancer.
• Have had a heart attack or circulatory problems.
• Get migraines with aura (seeing flashing lights or zigzags).
• Have high blood pressure.
• Have unmanaged diabetes.
• Have liver disease.
• Have unexplained vaginal bleeding.
• Take medicines that interact with the vaginal ring.

Share your medical history with your healthcare provider so they can determine if the birth control ring is safe for you.

Why do women use a vaginal ring for birth control?

The birth control ring is one of the most effective forms of contraception when used correctly. A lot of people choose to use a vaginal ring for birth control because it’s easy to use and effective. Unlike a daily birth control pill, you don’t have to remember to take it. There are many forms of birth control available. Talk with your healthcare provider about what method will work best for you.

What are the types of vaginal rings?

There are two hormonal vaginal rings approved for use by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Both vaginal rings work by releasing estrogen and progestin into your vagina. They’re both worn for 21 days (or three weeks), then removed for seven days (one week).