The vaginal ring
PROS/CONS
Pros
It´s easy to insert and to remove and only needs to be put in once a month. Each ring lasts 3 weeks, followed by a 1 week break.
Is 91% effective at preventing pregnancy with typical use.
Periods may become lighter.
Can help reduce period pain.
Upon discontinuation of use, fertility should return to normal.
With the contraceptive ring in place, you don't need to worry about contraception in the moment.
Can help with acne in some people.
Self-administered.
Cons
It needs to be changed monthly and keeping track of the number of weeks it has been in.
You can have spotting and bleeding in the first few months. It may cause disrupted periods.
You need to insert it monthly.
Some women prefer hormone free options.
Cannot be used when breastfeeding.
Does not protect against HIV infection (AIDS) and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
It may cause weight gain.
It may cause breast tenderness.
Some women experience mood changes, including mood swings, depression, or depressed mood.
The pros and cons listed are not exhaustive. Talk to your doctor or nurse for more information.
SIDE EFFECTS
Vaginal ring side effects
Bleeds usually become lighter, less painful and more regular. You can have spotting and bleeding in the first few months. The ring can also stop bleeding altogether if you choose not to have a ring-free week.
The vaginal ring can cause weight gain.
The vaginal ring can cause mood changes.
Acne can be a side effect of the vaginal ring. However, some women find that combined hormonal methods like the combined pill, patch and ring can help improve their acne. This is because the combination of oestrogen and progesterone helps to balance their hormones.
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Vaginal infection
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Decreased libido
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Headaches/migraine
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Abdominal pain
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Nausea
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Breast tenderness
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Pelvic pain
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Period pain
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Vaginal discharge
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Genital itching
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Vaginal ring discomfort
A very small number of people using the vaginal ring may develop a blood clot in a vein or an artery. Don't use the ring if you've had a blood clot before.
PP-UN-WHC-GB-0080 September 2023
