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Known as The ring, the halo
Medical names Combined Vaginal Ring, Nuvaring® (brand)
Effectiveness 93%
It lasts 28 days
Fertility No contraceptive effect when ring is removed
Who can use it? People with a vagina and uterus of any age from first period till menopause
Hormones Contains oestrogen and progestogen hormones
Visibility Discreet as it sits inside the vagina and is not visible during sex
STIs No protection
Side effects Headaches, nausea, breast tenderness, bloating, uterine spotting. Allow 6 months to adjust to the hormones
Cost approx. $130 for a 3 month supply
Where to get it Visit a reproductive and sexual health clinic or your local doctor. You may need to visit a pharmacy to pick up a prescription

 

Contraceptive Ring

The contraceptive ring is a thin flexible plastic ring that a person positions in their vagina around the cervix

contraceptive-ring

 

 

Contraceptive Ring

How does it work?

The contraceptive ring fits comfortably inside the vagina and releases a small amount of hormones every day. The hormones prevent the ovaries from releasing eggs (ova). It also changes the mucus of the cervix and lining, making it harder for any sperm to enter the uterus. This prevents pregnancy. 

The contains two types of hormones called progestogen and oestrogen. One ring contains enough hormones to work as a contraceptive for 21 days. It remains in the vagina for 3 weeks. After the 3 weeks the ring should be removed and left out for 1 week before inserting a new ring. During this 1 week ring-free timeframe, you may experience bleeding which is similar to a menstrual period. After 7 days you insert a new contraceptive ring and leave it in place for 21 days. 

If you like the daily combined contraceptive pill but find it difficult to remember taking it every day, the contraceptive ring is a good option as the hormone dosages are very similar. 

You will still need to consider the risk of Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) every time you have sex. 

 

What’s it like to use?

Using a contraceptive ring is a bit like using a tampon, so you need to be comfortable inserting something small into your vagina. To insert the ring, it can be folded into a thin shape and slid into the vagina. When inserted into the vagina, the ring will return to its ring shape. 

You or a sexual partner should not feel the ring during vaginal sex. The vaginal wall is warm, soft and bumpy, so the contraceptive ring easily fits in with its surroundings. The contraceptive ring will stay within the vagina. It is held in place by pelvic muscles. 

Your body stops ovulating. Every 21 days the contraceptive ring is removed for 7 days.

You no longer have menstrual bleeding and instead experience uterine bleeding, which can feel similar but is usually lighter in flow. 

 

What if I forget about it?

To be effective you need to remember the correct dates for removing and inserting the ring. This method is 93% effective because 7% of people forget to remove the ring or re-insert it after the bleed. Using a calendar or menstruation app may be helpful. 

  • If you have left the ring in for longer than 21 days but less than 28 days, remove the old ring and insert the new ring as initially scheduled. You don't need any extra contraception.
  • If you have left the ring in for longer than 28 days, remove the old ring and insert a new ring. Use alternative contraception (condoms) for 7 days. If there has been any unprotected penis in vagina (PIV) sex in the previous 5 days emergency contraception should be considered. 
  • If you are within the 21 day period of wearing the ring: If the ring has been removed from the vagina for less than 24 hours, insert a new ring and it will continue to work. 
  • If you are within the 21 day period of wearing the ring: If there has been no ring in the vagina for more than 24 hours, insert a new ring and use an alternative contraceptive method for 7 days. If there has been any unprotected penis in vagina (PIV) sex in the previous 5 days emergency contraception should be considered. 
  • If you have forgotten to put the ring in after a 7 day break: put in a new ring and use an alternative contraceptive method for 7 days. 

 

Who can use it?

People with a vagina and uterus of any age, from first period to menopause. 

The contraceptive ring is suitable for people who have never experienced pregnancy and for use as contraception after pregnancy. 

Contraceptives that contain oestrogen may be less suitable if you:

- have current breast cancer

- are within 6 weeks of birth and breastfeeding

- experience migraine with aura

- have current or past history of heart disease

- are 35 years or older and smoking either 15 or more cigarettes a day or vaping any amount

- have high blood pressure

- have complicated valvular or congenital heart disease

- have current or past history of blood clots

- have severe liver disease

It is best to talk to your healthcare professional about whether this method is suitable for you. Your healthcare provider will do a thorough health assessment to ensure this method is safe for you to use. 

If you experience polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), the Combined Hormonal Contraceptive Pill is generally considered to be the best contraceptive option. Given the contraceptive ring contains similar hormone doses, it is also a good option. However, it is best to discuss your exact situation with a doctor. 

The contraceptive ring is suitable for people who may have a family history of breast cancer. It is not suitable for people who have breast cancer or have experienced breast cancer in the past. Please discuss your exact situation with your doctor. 

 

Side effects

During the first 6 months your body may take time to adjust to the hormones. 

Side effects can include increased headaches, nausea, breast tenderness, bloating, abnormal bleeding, and weight gain. You may find that you experience less hormonal mood changes, and improvements with heavy bleeding, symptoms of endometriosis and acne. Learn more about your reproductive organs and sexual health and hormonal contraceptives. 

If at any point you feel that this contraceptive method is making you feel uncomfortable or unwell, get advice from a doctor or medical professional. If it is an emergency, call an ambulance on 000. 

 

What if you change your mind

The contraceptive ring is reversible. Any time you want to stop using it, just remove the ring and ovulation will return. Visit a reproductive and sexual health clinic or your local doctor to discuss other contraceptive options. 

 

How and where to get it

A reproductive and sexual health clinician can explain how to insert contraceptive rings and provide a prescription. 

It costs approximately $130 for a pack of 3 rings, which will last 12 weeks. There may also be consultation fees. You can ask for a quote when you book an appointment. 

If you are an International Student, your insurance provider can provide details on the health cover you will receive and your options for accessing care. This will depend on your policy and location.

 

 

More about hormonesReproduction & Contraception Further Support & Advice