Female Orgasm Secrets
Female Orgasm Secrets

The Vaginal Contraceptive Ring

The vaginal contraceptive ring is a form of birth control used by women to prevent pregnancy. This particular form of birth control contains the female hormones estrogen and progesterone, which are continuously released into the body in low doses. These hormones are absorbed into the bloodstream through the vagina. The ring must be prescribed by a healthcare provider, and is not effective in preventing the contraction of any sexually-transmitted diseases.

How does it work?
The ring is inserted into the vagina for a period of three weeks. Thereafter, the ring is removed, usually on the same day and time it was initially inserted, and a break is taken for a period of one week. At the end of that week, a new ring is inserted. The menstrual cycle generally occurs during the one-week break. The hormones contained in the vaginal contraceptive ring stop the ovary from releasing an egg, and also cause a thickening of the mucus in the cervix, thus making it difficult for sperm to enter into the uterus. The hormones also cause a slight change in the uterine lining, which prevents the implantation of a fertilized egg.

How is it used?
To start using the vaginal contraceptive ring, you must insert it between Day 1 (first day of your period) and Day 5 of your menstrual cycle. It does not matter whether your period has ended or whether you are still bleeding at this time. The exact position of the inserted ring is not significant, but it is beneficial to insert it as deeply as possible. The deeper the ring is placed, the less likely it will be felt by you or your partner, and the less likely it will be for it to accidentally fall out. If the ring happens to come out, rinse it with cool water and re-insert it immediately. If the ring has been out of the vagina for more than three hours, then it may not be effective in preventing pregnancy for the next few days. Be sure to use an additional form of birth control, such as condoms, until the ring has been in place for seven consecutive days.

Benefits and side effects
The vaginal contraceptive ring is believed to be 98-99% effective in preventing pregnancy. For many women who use the ring, menstrual periods become lighter and associated cramps less severe. This is a favorable contraceptive choice for many who want to avoid the task of remembering to take a pill every day, and the hassle of interrupting lovemaking sessions in order to use an alternate birth control device.

Side effects associated with the ring include;

  • headache
  • dizziness
  • nausea
  • vomiting
  • swelling of the hands, feet, or abdomen
  • breast tenderness
  • irregular vaginal bleeding or spotting
  • weight gain

Smoking should be avoided when using the ring as it increases the risk of blood clots, heart attack, and stroke, especially in women aged thirty-five years or older.