Birth Control Ring
A birth control ring is a hormone-based contraceptive that is inserted into a woman’s vagina to prevent pregnancy. It is about five centimeters in diameter and it is donut-shaped and made of soft, flexible material.
The hormones in the birth control ring are a combination of progesterone and estrogen. These hormones prevent ovulation- the monthly cycle of releasing an egg from the female ovaries. When an egg is not released, a woman will not get pregnant since there is no egg for the male sperm to fertilize upon intercourse.
The hormone combinations also thicken the woman's cervical mucus; thus, making it hard for the male sperm to penetrate the uterus and reach/penetrate the egg that may have been released. The hormones may also change the uterine lining, making it difficult for the released egg to attach to the uterus.
A birth control ring is inserted into the woman's vagina on the 1st day or before the 5th day of her menstrual cycle. The birth control ring stays for 3 consecutive weeks, and at the end of the 3rd week, it is removed to allow menstrual flow. At the end of the 4th week, a new ring is inserted and the process starts once again.
Hormone-based birth control methods do not take effect at once upon usage, so it is advisable to use another method of birth control such as condom to be on the safer side. This additional method should be used for at least 7 days just to be sure. The birth control ring should work by itself after the 7th day. However, it is still advisable to use condoms to prevent STDs if you are sexually active and if you don’t have a steady partner.
Birth control rings usually cost around $30 to $45 per month. Family planning clinics may sell them for less. You can ask your doctor or your health insurance provider if this type of birth control and consultation are covered by your policy.
Possible side-effects of birth control rings
Side-effects from birth control rings are generally mild and they disappear after 2 to 3 months.
- irregular menstrual bleeding
- mood swings
- blood clots - although rare, but may be present especially in non-smoking women under 35
- weight gain
- headaches
- breast tenderness
- nausea
- vaginal irrigation or infections, such as yeast infection
- change in vision or inability to wear contact lenses for women who wear contact lenses
- vaginal discharge
Who should NOT use birth control rings?
Some women may not be suitable to use birth control rings, and these are women who:
- have history of blood clots
- have severe high blood pressure
- have certain types of cancers
- have migraine or are prone to headaches
- have diabetes with complications
- have unexplained/unscheduled vaginal bleeding [bleeding that is not during a regular menstrual period]
- may be pregnant
A consultation with your doctor can help determine if you are a good candidate to use a birth control ring. If symptoms and uncomfortable experience occur, you should remove the ring immediately and go to the nearest clinic or hospital.
Click here to read more on Birth Control Ring
Understanding Birth Control Ring Recommended Resources:
UC Academic Health Center
McKinley Health Center
