Contraceptive ring: use, advantages and disadvantages

The vaginal ring, also called the contraceptive ring, contraceptive ring or monthly ring, is a transparent, flexible and soft ring, about 5 cm long, that is inserted inside the vagina. This contraceptive method is hormonal , and works by releasing estrogen and progesterone, hormones that are absorbed through the vagina and enter the bloodstream, preventing ovulation and, therefore, pregnancy.

The vaginal ring must be placed in the vagina at the beginning of the menstrual cycle , so that in this way it begins to secrete the hormones that cause the effects explained above. After 3 weeks, it must be removed and wait a week, since it is the period in which the woman will have menstruation and, after that period, she can place it again.

If you are thinking of using the contraceptive ring, it can be purchased without a prescription in pharmacies, although it is always advisable to go to the gynecologist to consult it, since this contraceptive method can cause physical and psychological changes by causing hormonal changes.

The contraceptive ring is inserted into the vagina at the beginning of the menstrual cycle . It is advisable to advise you on the part of the provider about the best day to start using the ring. Normally, women start using it within the first 5 days after the start of the menstrual period. Therefore, if your menstrual cycle starts on Monday morning, you should wear the ring until next Saturday morning to get protection.

Putting on the contraceptive ring is fairly straightforward. You must insert a new ring inside the vagina and leave it in for 3 weeks, then remove it and not put it back in for a week.

Steps to place the vaginal ring

• Wash your hands with water and soap.
• Position. You can choose to stand with one leg raised on a chair. They can also squat or lie on your back with your knees bent and apart. It will depend on which position is most comfortable for you.
• Remove the ring from the wrapper, grab it with your thumb and index finger – the big toe and the one next to it – and press it with your fingers to make it narrower and longer. Gently insert it into the vagina until you detect that it is inside.

To remove it, you just have to insert a slightly curved index finger and gently pull it out.

Advantages of the vaginal ring

This contraceptive method is simple and comfortable , so you don’t have to worry about using it every time you go to have sex. This in turn has the advantage that it is more difficult for us to forget to use it, since you only have to enter it once and leave it for 3 weeks, without the need to configure alarms to warn us to use it. Sex is not interrupted by not having to stop to put it on, something that many couples find uncomfortable.

On the other hand, the vaginal ring regulates menstruation , being able to be of great relief for women who tend to have irregular periods, and some even claim that they are shorter and less intense. In addition, it is highly effective in preventing pregnancy.

Disadvantages of the vaginal ring

Being a hormonal contraceptive method, the vaginal ring can interfere with physical and psychological aspects of the woman. It is possible that a woman’s sexual desire is altered, her vaginal discharge increases, or vaginal irritation or infections occur . Although, undoubtedly, the greatest risk associated with the use of the contraceptive ring lies in its lack of protection against sexually transmitted diseases. As there are no physical barriers to direct contact, both men and women are at increased risk of contracting diseases such as syphilis , chlamydia , HIV or vaginal herpes .

What is the difference between the vaginal ring and the pills?

The main difference is that the pill must be taken orally every day, so there is a higher risk of forgetting to take it, which would imply less effectiveness in protecting against pregnancy.

Is it possible for the ring to come off?

The ring does not usually come out of the vagina. In the event that this happens, wash the ring with warm water and replace it as soon as possible.

Can you withdraw during sex?

In general, the ring does not usually cause discomfort during intercourse. However, it is possible that some couples do experience some discomfort. In this case they can remove the ring during sexual intercourse, but never for more than 3 hours.

How can I get a vaginal ring?

Depending on the country you reside in, the contraceptive ring requires a prescription. It is advisable to go to the gynecologist for adequate advice on this contraceptive method in a more personalized way after performing any necessary medical examination and consulting the medical history. The vaginal ring can be purchased in pharmacies and costs around € 20.

This article is merely informative, at FastlyHeal .com we do not have the power to prescribe medical treatments or make any type of diagnosis. We invite you to see a doctor in the case of presenting any type of condition or discomfort.

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