Vaginal Contraceptive Ring

The facts: The vaginal contraceptive ring (also called "the ring") is a flexible, transparent, colorless vaginal ring measuring two inches in diameter that releases a continuous low dose of estrogen and progestin. The ring is inserted into the vagina for three weeks and is then removed for one week while the woman has her period. A new ring is used with each cycle. It is inserted and removed by pressing the sides of the ring together between the thumb and index finger and gently pushing it in or pulling it out of the vagina. Use begins on or before the fifth day of a woman's period.

How well it works: 98 to 99 percent effective in preventing pregnancy, but effectiveness decreases with improper use.

Pros:
• Dosage schedule is easy to follow, as the ring only needs to be changed once a month (compared to birth control pills, which must be taken every day).
• Easily inserted and removed.
• As the doses of hormones are low and steady, little spotting or irregular bleeding occurs, and ovulation returns quickly after a woman stops using the ring.

Cons:
• Does not provide protection against STDs.
• Reported side effects include vaginal infections and irritation, discharge, headache, weight gain, and nausea, some of which are similar to those of birth control pills.
• Women who use the ring are strongly advised not to smoke, as doing so can increase the risk of severe cardiovascular side effects.
• Not suggested for women who are or may be pregnant, or have blood clots, severe high blood pressure, certain cancers or a history of heart attacks and strokes.

Where to get it: Widely available beginning in mid-2002.

Cost: The price has not yet been set, but it should cost around the same as other monthly contraceptives.