What is it?
A thin, soft, transparent flexible ring about 2 inches in diameter that is inserted into the vagina.

How does it work?
The ring slowly releases a continuous low dose of synthetic hormones similar to estrogen and progesterone.  The ring prevents ovulation (ovaries do not release egg), affects the lining of uterus, thickens cervical mucus, stops sperm, and prevents fertilization.

How do I use it?
Each month the ring is inserted into the vagina and left in place for 3 weeks in a row.  During the fourth week, a woman does not wear the ring.  This is the time when your period should begin.  Then you would insert a new ring for the next 3 weeks, and so on.

How reliable is it?
When used correctly, the ring is 98%-99% effective. 

Are there any hormones involved?
Yes

Does this type of contraceptive offer protection from STI/STDs?
No

What are the advantages?
The ring provides a discrete and effective form of birth control without daily maintenance.  In addition, it does not require a daily regimen.  The ring allows for spontaneity.  It usually decreases the size and length of periods as well as decreases menstrual cramps.

What are the disadvantages?
There are various side effects that may occur (see below).  Effectiveness is reduced when used with certain antibiotics or barbituates.   It may also increase the chance of breast cancer.

Are there any side effects or health risks that I should discuss with my healthcare provider?
The patch may cause nausea,  breast symptoms (i.e. tenderness), headache, weight gain or loss, water retention, increased blood pressure, mood changes, vaginal infections and irritations, and/or vaginal discharge.

Where do I get it?
Prescription and Clinic Visit required.

How often do I need to use it?
You insert and remove the ring yourself once a month.

• If you are pregnant or think you may be pregnant
• If you have a history of heart attack or stroke
• If you have blood clots in the legs (thrombophlebitis), lungs (pulmonary embolism), or eyes
• If you have a history of blood clots in the deep veins of your legs
• If you suffer from chest pain (angina pectoris)
• If you have known or suspected breast cancer or cancer of the lining of the uterus, cervix, or vagina
• If you have unexplained vaginal bleeding (until your healthcare professional reaches a diagnosis)
• If you have hepatitis or yellowing of the whites of your eyes or of the skin (jaundice) during pregnancy or during previous use of hormonal contraceptives
• If you have a liver tumor (benign or cancerous)
• If you have severe high blood pressure
• If you have diabetes with complications of the kidney, eyes, nerves, or blood vessels
• If you have headaches with neurological symptoms
• If you have a disease of heart valves with complications
• If you are using oral contraceptives at the same time
  
• If you have the need for a prolonged period of bed rest following major surgery
• If you have an allergy to any of the components of the vaginal ring
  
• If you smoke cigarettes (it increases the risk of serious cardiovascular side effects from oral contraceptives).  This risk increases with age and with heavy smoking (15 or more cigarettes per day) and is quite marked in women over 35 years of age.  Women who use oral contraceptives are strongly advised not to smoke.