The vaginal ring is more common than you think, and people have used it for a long time. However, if you are new, you should learn about the device before using it. We have listed 5 things everyone should know before using a vaginal ring.
- Its brand name is NuvaRing
The vaginal ring is a relatively new invention in the birth control department. As such, it is still not that often talked about because most people are still unfamiliar with what it is and how it works.
Technically, the ‘device’ itself is called a vaginal ring, but you will most often come across its brand name NuvaRing on the market.
Also, t is not a ‘device’ per se, but it is a nifty little plastic ring that you can insert into your vagina and the ring will release various hormones that will prevent pregnancy.
Well, in essence, the hormones released by NuvaRing affect your uterus environment. The main hormones released by NuvaRing are oestrogen and progestin, both work to suppress your ovulation.
That way, no egg gets released to your uterus, thus, no sperm cell can fertilise anything. Sounds nifty, but suppressing your ovulation could also come with a few unpleasant consequences down the line.
- Its failure rate is roughly the same as a birth pill
Expert studies have revealed that the failure rate of NuvaRing is roughly the same as birth pills. That failure rate is roughly at 0.3 per cent, and that means less than 1 woman out of 100.
Still, this number is obtained under the observation that all women use their vaginal rings strictly correctly as per instruction.
That instruction goes like this: you insert the ring into the vagina and let it stay there for 3 weeks; only pull it out after 3 weeks to allow 1 week of menstruation; after that period is over, insert a fresh, new loop of NuvaRing.
According to Sexual Health Victoria, when used accurately, the NuvaRing can offer over 99% effectiveness in preventing pregnancy. However, if the ring is not properly used, forgotten to be replaced, or certain medications are taken, its effectiveness may drop to 93%. Thus, under perfect use, less than one out of every 100 individuals who use the birth control ring may become pregnant in a year.
If you follow this instruction correctly, you will get that 0.3 per cent failure rate. Still, NuvaRing doesn’t come with that daily reminder to take your pills, so it is unlikely you will risk a day without protection.
- If you’re a smoker above the age of 35, this isn’t for you
If you are a regular smoker and you are above the age of 3, a vaginal ring is not for you. This is because the use of birth control could increase your risk of heart attack, blood clots, as well as blocked arteries.
All of these risks are increased if you are a smoker because you already have a higher risk than an otherwise healthy person.
The risks of using birth control in this group of patients are very serious, so this is definitely something to keep in mind and you shouldn’t be a daredevil.
The NuvaRing website advises against using NuvaRing if you are a smoker over 35 years old. Smoking with hormonal contraceptives increases the risk of heart and blood vessel problems. These risks grow with age and the number of cigarettes smoked. NuvaRing, like other combination hormonal contraceptives, is linked to serious side effects such as blood clots, stroke, and heart attack.
If you really need to utilise a vaginal ring for birth control, it would be wise to consult your physician first.
NuvaRing is also not recommended for people who have had a history of stroke and those with high blood pressure (also for risks of blood clots).
- Some vaginal discomfort can occur, but it’s very rare
Since a vaginal ring is a foreign object that gets inserted into your vagina, there is always a risk of some discomfort.
For the women themselves, there could be some instances of irritation; however, this is a very rare case. Doctors have said that they don’t typically see this issue.
And yes, as long as you handle your vaginal ring with clean fingers, and as long as you maintain your personal hygiene at tip-top shape, there should be no such problems at all.
Sometimes a vaginal ring may fall out on its own, such as, when you urinate. When this happens, you need to throw away the old ring and quickly insert a new one.
You have around 3 hours to reinsert a new vaginal ring for its effect to still remain intact in your body. If you are out and about, it is better to carry a spare ring.
- There is no way the vaginal ring can get lost in there
Some women may worry about the vaginal ring getting lost in the vagina. Well, rest easy because there is no way anything at all could get lost in the vagina.
Not even a tampon, not a condom, and whilst we’re at it, not even a contact lens could get lost in the back of your eyeball. As you can see, your uterus has a lower end called the cervix that prevents anything to get up and inside the uterus.
As stated by The National Health Service, the NuvaRing cannot get lost in the vagina or be inserted too deeply. It can be worn during sexual activity and any other physical activities without any risk of displacement. There is no danger of the NuvaRing being pushed too far up in the vagina. It is important to remember that the vagina is a closed pouch and does not connect to the rest of the abdominal cavity.
So in essence, the vaginal ring will never be able to get inside and high enough to leave the vagina the other way around. However, some doctors have said that there could be a risk of inserting the vaginal ring into the wrong hole.
Yep, some people get so confused they had actually inserted the vaginal ring into their bladder instead of the vagina.
In conclusion, we can say that it is better that ladies know everything about the product, like vaginal rings, before using them. The five things we provided can help you learn more about vaginal rings and if you should try them.
Your Guide To The Contraceptive Vaginal Ring
The contraceptive vaginal ring, also known as the birth control ring, is a small, flexible ring that is inserted into the vagina to prevent pregnancy. It is a hormonal method of birth control, releasing a combination of estrogen and progestin into the body to prevent ovulation. The ring is a convenient and discreet option for women who are looking for a long-term birth control solution. In this paper, we will discuss everything you need to know about the contraceptive vaginal ring, including its effectiveness, how to use it, potential side effects, and other important considerations.
Effectiveness
The contraceptive vaginal ring is highly effective in preventing pregnancy when used correctly. According to Planned Parenthood, the ring has a failure rate of less than 1%, making it as effective as other hormonal methods such as the birth control pill. However, it is essential to note that the ring does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs), so it is important to use condoms in addition to the ring for protection against STIs.
How to use it
The contraceptive vaginal ring is a small, flexible ring that is inserted into the vagina. It is designed to be self-inserted and can be done easily at home. Before inserting the ring, it is important to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water. The ring should be inserted on the first day of your menstrual cycle or within the first five days of your period. You should leave the ring in your vagina for three weeks, and then remove it for a week to allow for a withdrawal bleed. After the week is over, you can insert a new ring for another three weeks.
Potential side effects
Like any other hormonal birth control method, the contraceptive vaginal ring may have some side effects. These can include nausea, headaches, breast tenderness, and changes in menstrual bleeding. However, these side effects are usually mild and tend to go away after a few months of use. Additionally, some women may experience a decrease in libido or mood changes. If you experience any severe or persistent side effects, it is important to consult your healthcare provider.
Important considerations
There are a few important things to keep in mind when using the contraceptive vaginal ring. Firstly, it is important to always use the ring as directed, including removing it after three weeks and replacing it after the one-week break. Secondly, the ring may not be suitable for women with certain health conditions, such as a history of blood clots or uncontrolled high blood pressure. It is important to consult with your doctor before starting to use the ring. Lastly, the ring may interact with certain medications, such as some antibiotics, so it is important to inform your healthcare provider of any medications you are taking.
Advantages and disadvantages
One of the main advantages of the contraceptive vaginal ring is its convenience. Unlike the birth control pill, which needs to be taken every day, the ring only needs to be replaced once a month. It is also discreet and can be worn during intercourse without being noticed. Additionally, the ring can help regulate menstrual cycles and reduce period cramps. However, some women may find it uncomfortable to insert and remove the ring, and it may not be suitable for those who are sensitive to hormones.
In conclusion, the contraceptive vaginal ring is an effective and convenient option for women looking for long-term birth control. It is important to use it correctly and consistently to ensure its effectiveness. It is also essential to be aware of any potential side effects and important considerations before starting to use the ring. If you are considering the contraceptive vaginal ring, make sure to consult with your healthcare provider to determine if it is the right option for you. With proper use, the ring can provide safe and effective birth control, giving women more control over their reproductive health.
