The vaginal ring is a method of contraception.
The vaginal ring is a thin, flexible ring made from plastic. It contains the same 2 hormones as the contraceptive pill.
These hormones prevent ovulation. They also make it more difficult for sperm cells to reach the mucous membrane of the cervix. The sperm cells will then have difficulties reaching the uterus, where the egg cell is located. The hormones also interfere with the implantation of an egg cell.
How to use a vaginal ring
Use a vaginal ring as follows:
- Squeeze the ring.
- Insert the ring deep into the vagina. You can insert the ring from various positions, for instance by standing with 1 leg raised, lying down or squatting.
- Put 1 finger inside the vagina and push the ring deep into the vagina. The ring should sit comfortably. The exact position in the vagina is not important.
- The ring stays in place when having sexual intercourse. You can remove the vaginal ring during sexual intercourse, but you need to insert it again within 3 hours.
- To remove the ring, put your finger into your vagina and hook it through the ring. Gently pull the ring out.
- Use the ring continuously for 3 weeks. Remove the ring on the same day of the week as you inserted it (for instance, Wednesday). Then throw the ring in a bin.
- For the next 7 days (1 week), you do not use the vaginal ring. This week, you will start to bleed (menstrual period). You are also protected in this week.
- After 7 days insert a new ring, even if you are still bleeding.
- Repeat the previous steps.
You can also insert the vaginal ring using an applicator instead of your finger.
Reliable
The vaginal ring is very reliable if used correctly.
The vaginal ring is not reliable, or is less reliable, if:
- You are taking certain medicines such as St John’s wort. Tell your doctor you are using the vaginal ring. He will take this into account when prescribing medicines.
- If you forget to insert the vaginal ring after the 7-day break, or if you forget to change the ring;
- You lose the vaginal ring during sexual intercourse and do not insert it again within 3 hours.
The vaginal ring can be used for up to 4 months from the day you bought it in a pharmacy.
No damage to your health
The vaginal ring contains hormones. These hormones usually do not generally affect your health. However, in some cases it is better to choose a different method of contraception. Ask the general practitioner for advice.
The vaginal ring does not make you less fertile. If you want to get pregnant, you just remove the vaginal ring.
During the first months of using the vaginal ring, you may have side-effects like headaches, vaginal infections and nausea. These effects usually disappear spontaneously. If they do not disappear, consult a doctor.
Your menstruation often becomes less heavy and less painful.
No protection against STIs and HIV
The vaginal ring does not protect against STIs or HIV. Only a condom can protect you.
Buying the vaginal ring
You need a prescription from a family doctor, gynaecologist or midwife to get the vaginal ring in a pharmacy.
Until the age of 21, most forms of contraception are reimbursed by your health insurance. However, you first have to pay the excess (eigen risico) of your health insurance policy. Check with your health insurance provider to find out how much will be reimbursed. From the age of 21, contraception is only reimbursed if you have taken out additional insurance for contraception.
