Vaginal Ring
Description
The vaginal ring is a flexible ring inserted by the woman into her vagina for three weeks every month.
How it Works
The ring contains the female hormones oestrogen and progestogen, which are absorbed from the vagina to prevent ovulation (an egg being released).
Advantages
- Convenient once a month replacement
- Good for women who may forget to take a pill daily
- Inserted by the woman herself
Drawbacks
- Not suitable for women with conditions such as high blood pressure
- Certain medication can interfere with its effectiveness. In this instance another method of contraception would have to be used.
- Does not protect against sexually transmitted infections
- Costs more than the pill
- Not available without a prescription
- Not advised for smokers over 35, women who are breast-feeding
