For a lay couple in the Indian context, the contraceptive options speak of condoms, oral pills or intrauterine contraceptive devices. Other options such as injectables are slowly gaining popularity. However, in America and Europe a revolutionary contraceptive option has emerged, that is, The vaginal ring. It is a form of birth control for women that you can insert internally for three weeks and then withdraw to allow for one week of menstruation. It is a flexible (latex-free) ring that is discreet, usually undetectable only to the user, and allows intercourse to be more spontaneous and relaxed. The vaginal ring also alleviates the concern associated with contraceptives such as the IUD that the product may ascend into the uterus as the cervix prevents the ring from entering the uterus.
How does it work?
To facilitate understanding, the vaginal ring works very similar to normal birth control pills. The mode of action of the vaginal ring is as follows:
- It releases estrogen and progestin, the two hormones produced naturally by your body, into your bloodstream, preventing ovulation (one ovary releases one egg each month).
- The vaginal ring prevents sperm from entering the uterus by thickening the cervical mucus. Therefore, it provides two-step protection.
How effective is it?
When used correctly, the ring is more effective than an oral contraceptive pill (99% +). Although you should consult a healthcare professional for proper use and disposal.
When do I start wearing the ring?
If you are using the ring for the first time, insert it between day one and the fifth of your period, even if the bleeding has not stopped. Count the first day of your period as the first day. You must use a condom during each act of sex for the first seven days during the first ring cycle.
When do I take off the ring?
Remove the ring three weeks after insertion, around the same time of day, if possible. Place it in the foil envelope it was originally packaged in and discard. Contraceptive protection continues throughout the week without a ring. Exactly seven days after removing the old ring, insert a new one. It is recommended that you insert and remove it at the same time of day each month.
Who can’t wear the ring?
Women with high cholesterol, diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity, and migraines with aura or neurological symptoms should not wear the ring or consult with their physician to determine eligibility.
If you experience any of the following symptoms, you should seek medical attention immediately.
TO – Abdominal pain (severe)
VS – Chest pain, shortness of breath, coughing up blood
H – Headache (severe), numbness, or weakness in the arms or legs.
E – Eye problems (loss of vision, blurred vision, flashing lights)
Profits
The vaginal ring can benefit the patient in several ways:
- birth control once a month (as opposed to a daily pill)
- Very discreet and private; no one can see it or know you are using it.
- Easily reversible: no waiting period. Ovulation returns quickly when the use of the ring is discontinued.
- Like a contraceptive patch, low-dose hormones are continuously and evenly absorbed into the bloodstream, keeping side effects to a minimum.
- Thickened cervical mucus helps decrease the risk of pelvic inflammatory infections.
- Decreased risk of developing ovarian cysts.
- Decreased risk of developing ovarian or endometrial cancer.
- Vomiting and diarrhea should not interfere with the effectiveness of the ring.
- Shorter and lighter periods (lower risk of developing anemia)
- Decrease in premenstrual symptoms (usually)
Are there any side effects?
The thing to keep in mind is that it is a form of hormonal contraceptive option and, like other forms of contraceptive methods that contain hormones, there are side effects to be aware of when using the vaginal ring. They include:
- Possible weight gain, nausea, vomiting, and / or breast tenderness
- Humor changes
- Spotting between periods
- Possible increased susceptibility to vaginal infections.
- Headaches
- Increased menstrual cramps (rare)
More serious, although less common, side effects can include:
- an increased risk of developing blood clots in the legs, heart, lungs, or brain
- an increased risk of having a stroke or heart attack
- an increased risk of developing breast cancer
Consult with a doctor to know the real percentage of risk. The possibility of some serious risks is high if a patient is over 35 years old and smokes. Cigarette smoking increases the risk of cardiovascular complications and is higher when a woman smokes more than 15 cigarettes a day and increases significantly when she is also over 35 years old. Women are advised to stop smoking if they use hormonal contraceptives in any form.
Conclution:
It is important to discuss the benefits versus side effects of the ring with your doctor. Not all patients are good candidates for the vaginal ring. Together, you and your doctor can determine your best option for birth control. So, make an informed decision to enjoy the long-term benefits and enjoy marital happiness without worrying about an unwanted pregnancy.