What are Vaginal Rings?

Vaginal rings are a short-term, hormonal birth control method used by people with vaginas to prevent pregnancy. It is a flexible plastic placed within the vagina and releases hormones to disrupt ovulation. 

There are two types of vaginal rings. One releases a combination of estrogen and progestin continuously and is left in place for three weeks. The user can remove the ring for the fourth week to allow for menstruation to take place. The second ring releases progesterone and can be left in place for up to 90 days. After the 90 days are up, the user can replace it with a new ring immediately.

Users may find the vaginal ring as an appealing method of contraception as it doesn’t require daily attention and is easy for the user to insert and remove themselves. If used correctly, only 1 or 2 in every 100 may become pregnant using the vaginal ring. Some users experience temporary side effects such as spotting between periods, headaches, nausea, and breast soreness.

Whether the vaginal ring, or birth control for sperm producers, we want all people to find a contraceptive option that works for them. We’re working hard to make reproductive autonomy for all a reality.

Nuts & Bolts: Vaginal Rings