Contraceptive Ring

What is a contraceptive ring?

The Vaginal Contraceptive Ring is a round, flexible plastic ring. It is inserted into the vagina where it releases two hormones over a monthly period. The Vaginal Ring can provide safe and effective contraception without needing to take tablets every day.

About the ring

The Contraceptive Ring contains two hormones, an Oestrogen and a Progestogen which are similar to the naturally produced hormones by the ovaries. The ring is round but flexible making it easy to insert and remains comfortable for the whole duration. The ring can be easily moved to ensure full comfort. It can be felt whilst having sexual intercourse but most people do not consider it to be uncomfortable or unpleasant. It is highly unlikely to harm yourself or your partner.

The ring provides over 99% contraceptive effectiveness when correctly used.

How it works?

The Ring works similar to the Combined Oral Contraceptive Pill. It releases oestrogen and Progestogen to the bloodstream through the vaginal wall. It can provide contraception though three possible methods.

• Thickens the mucus in the cervix making it difficult for sperm to pass to the womb
• Reduces the thickness of the uterus lining stopping any eggs from embedding onto this lining
• It can prevent ovulation from occurring

Advantages of Treatment

There are certain benefits especially over taking Oral Contraceptives. A few advantages are detailed below. If you have further queries or require assistance please contact the Doctor or the Sexual Health clinics for further expert advice.

• Insert and removal is easy due to the size and flexibility
• Inserted once a month, you do not need to remember to take it every day
• Does not cause nausea and vomiting as the hormones are absorbed straight to the bloodstream through the vaginal wall
• Can improve acne in women affected
• Can produce a more regular, lighter or pain-free period
• Can reduce effects of pre-menstrual symptoms

Disadvantages

There are also certain disadvantages whilst using the ring.

• Insertion and removal can be uncomfortable
• Use can result in breakthrough bleeding and spotting – this is usually transient and diminishes after using the ring for a few months
• Can increase risk of Blood Clots
• Does not prevent Sexually Transmitted Diseases – use a condom to prevent this

       
Risks associated with using the Ring

There are certain conditions which carries increased health risks whilst using hormonal contraceptives such as the ring.

The risk of Blood Clots can be increased especially if you have a predisposing condition or due to certain lifestyle activities.

• Have Active or Previous Heart Conditions such as angina
• Have suffered from clots (thromboembolism) of any kind before
• Have Hypertension or Diabetes
• Over the age of 35 and are a Smoker
• Obese

The increased risk is higher for the first year of using the ring and it is important to understand what to look out for to ensure you remain safe whilst using the ring.

• Unexplained swelling and pain with the chest or legs or constant pins and needles type sensation and pain in arms or legs
• Difficulty breathing or sudden loss of breath
• Severe Migraines or headaches
• Unexplained Eyesight problems
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin)

The FPA (sexual health charity) and NHS have also stated that research shows a slight increase in the risk of:-

• Cervical Cancer – unexplained stomach, hip pain should be reported to the Doctor
• Breast Cancer – Unexplained lumps, severe pain or changes in the nipple should be reported to the Doctor

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if the ring is in place?

There is no specific position, it should be inserted until it is comfortable for you. If there is discomfort then you can move it until it is comfortable. Most women do not feel the ring. The muscles of the vagina will keep it in place and it is very rare that it falls out or moves of its own accord. If you cannot feel the ring or it constantly falls out then contact the Doctor or Health clinic for further advice.

What do I do if the Ring is Expelled?

If the ring is expelled for less than 3 hours, then rinse with cool water and reinsert immediately.
If it is expelled for longer than 3 hours or you do not know how long it has been your protection may be reduced. Reinsert the ring (if in week one or two) and use additional contraceptive methods for 7 days. If it is week three of cycle then insert a new ring or delay for 7 days to allow the withdrawal bleed, then insert a new ring.

What do I do if the ring has broken?

If you find that the ring has broken, you do not need to worry. It will not harm you, however you should safely remove the ring and insert a new ring and carry on with your current cycle as normal.

The 7-day pill free ended but I forgot to insert a new ring immediately?

If the insertion is delayed after the 7-day interval by more than 24 hours, you may not be protected. Insert the new ring immediately and ensure you use additional methods for 7 days.

I forgot to remove the ring on the 21st day of my cycle?

If you forget to remove the ring on the normal day then you will still be protected. There is no harm caused if there is a delay and protection is maintained if the delay is less than a week. The 7-day ring free break should be observed and a new ring inserted.

I experience bleeding whilst the ring is inserted?

This is known as breakthrough bleeding and is common especially within the first few months of use. It is usually transient and dimishes with prolonged use of the ring. You can use a tampon or pad which will not have an effect on the effectiveness of the ring.

I didn't experience my period during the pill free interval?

This is highly unusual if you have used the ring correctly and it is important to discount pregnancy. Take a pregnancy test, if you are not pregnant then carry on with the regular regimen. If you are pregnant then contact the Doctor or the health clinic for further advice. Our Doctors are on hand to provide expert one-to-one consultation if you require information or assistance.

I've just had a baby, can I use the Ring?

You can safely use the ring 21 days after childbirth. You will be immediately protected. If you insert the ring 23 or more days after childbirth you will not be immediately protected and so it is advised to use additional methods for 7 days

I have had a miscarriage/abortion, can I use the ring?

You can safely use the ring immediately if required and you will be fully protected.

How to buy

Our doctors can prescribe a contraceptive ring called Nuva Ring. Further information is given under the heading above. Our Doctors will determine your suitability for this ring by reviewing your medical form. It is advised to fill in the form as good as you can and inform our doctor of your current medical circumstance to ensure the ring is safe for you to use.

Table of contents

What is a contraceptive ring?

About the ring

How it works

FAQ

How to buy