The contraceptive ring (or vaginal ring) was introduced to the market as a response to the dissatisfaction of women using contraceptive pills, effective only through daily use. Today, the vaginal ring is one of the most popular methods of long-term contraception. Read about how the ring works, who can use this method, and what are the most common side effects.
The vaginal ringis an increasingly popular method of contraception. It is as effective as the contraceptive pill, although it contains less hormones. The ring also has the advantage over pills that you don't have to think about it every day - it is worn once every 3 weeks.
Contents:
- What is a vaginal ring
- Price of vaginal ring
- How to insert a vaginal ring
- Pregnant vaginal ring
- The effectiveness of the contraceptive disc
- Is the vaginal ring felt during intercourse?
- The puck and vaginal medications and tampons
What is a vaginal ring?
The contraceptive (vaginal) disc is a flexible and transparent ring with a diameter of approx. 5.4 cm and a thickness of approx. 4 mm, in which active substances (hormones) are contained. As with oral contraception, it is an estrogen as well as a progestogen. These compounds show very good absorption through the epithelium covering the vagina, thanks to which the hormones from the contraceptive disc easily penetrate into the blood and inhibit ovulation. The vaginal route and the lack of the so-called the first-pass effect (through the gastrointestinal tract), which takes place during the administration of oral contraceptives, causes smaller fluctuations in blood hormone levels and completely eliminates the problem of malabsorption after oral administration in the case of vomiting or diarrhea.
The release of hormones from the contraceptive disc directly in the vagina significantly reduces the concentration of estrogen compared to other hormonal contraceptive methods. This explains the rare occurrence of specific side effects common to, for example, oral contraception, such as nausea and painful periods. The percentage of breakthrough bleeding and spotting is also lower with the ring than with the tabletscontraceptives.
Worth knowingPrice of vaginal ring
The price of one contraceptive disc, which is assumed for 3 weeks, is approx. PLN 50. You can also buy contraceptive discs in a pack of 3 - the price of such a set is about PLN 120.
What should you know about contraception?
How to insert a vaginal ring?
A woman can insert a contraceptive ring herself without the need to visit a doctor's office. The ring does not have to be placed in a specific place in the vagina. It is essential that it is just in contact with the vaginal mucosa. The vaginal ring is inserted and removed very easily:
- We assume a position that is comfortable for us, e.g. we squat or rest one leg on the toilet seat, bathtub, etc.
- Holding the disk between your thumb and forefinger, carefully slide it into the vagina. You do not need to place the ring deeply - it is enough for it to be undetectable.
- Take the disc out analogously, grabbing its edges with two fingers.
Remember to always remove the ringexactly after 3 weeks, on the same day of the week on which it was worn and at the same time(i.e. if it was worn on Monday at 12.00, we also take it out on Monday at 12:00 for 3 weeks).
In case of difficulties with putting on, you can use a special applicator, which can be purchased at a pharmacy.
The contraceptive disc is inserted for 3 weeks. After 21 days, it is removed from the vagina and after a 7-day break, a new cycle of using the preparation is started. The ring is usually put on during the first day of menstruation, but you can start using it on any day of the cycle, but in this case the woman must use an additional barrier method of contraception, e.g. a condom.
It is permissible to use another ring without a seven-day break, thus avoiding withdrawal bleeding.
ImportantPregnant vaginal ring
The contraceptive ring must not be used during pregnancy. If fertilization has taken place and the disc is in the vagina, it should be removed as soon as possible and see a gynecologist. Nursing mothers who would like to use this method of contraception should also consult their doctor.
The effectiveness of the contraceptive disc
The concentration of hormones released from the ring is much lower than that achieved with oral contraception. Nevertheless, it is sufficient to inhibit ovulation. The effectiveness of vaginal hormonal contraception is comparable to that of oral and transdermal contraception.(contraceptive patches).
Is the vaginal ring felt during intercourse?
According to a survey of couples using the vaginal contraceptive method, 15% of women and 30% of men feel the ring during intercourse. However, it is not recommended to remove the ring during intercourse, although its removal and reinsertion within 3 hours will not reduce its effectiveness. Just feeling the ring is not bothersome for most couples and is a very rare cause of discontinuation.
The puck and vaginal medications and tampons
Vaginal medications and tampons have no effect on the absorption of active substances released from the ring.
This will be useful to youThe main benefits of using the contraceptive ring
1. No need for daily use.
2. Eliminate absorption problems during gastrointestinal disturbances.
3. Lower levels of hormones in the blood, which reduces the number of systemic side effects.
4. Significantly reduces spotting and bleeding during the cycle.
5. High acceptance and satisfaction among women using the ring.
Main disadvantages of using the contraceptive ring
1. Not applicable to women with anatomical vaginal abnormalities.
2. Possible vaginal discomfort and the sensation of a foreign body.