The vaginal ring is a combined hormonal contraceptive method. It is a small, soft ring that is flexible, transparent, composed of non-toxic and non-irritant material, latex and silicone-free, and that has an outer diameter of 54 mm and a transverse diameter of 4 mm. The ring must be inserted inside the vagina to be able to perform its contraceptive action.
Each ring contains a small amount of two female sex hormones – a progestin (etonogestrel) and an estrogen (ethinyl estradiol). The ring slowly releases these hormones, which are then absorbed by the vaginal mucosa and pass into the bloodstream. The ring releases lower and more consistent amounts of estrogen than the combined pill and the patch, and is therefore considered a true low-dose combined hormonal contraceptive.
It works just like a combined contraceptive pill (the pill), but instead of taking a pill every day, the ring is left in the vagina for three weeks in a row. The two female sex hormones prevent the release of an egg cell from the ovaries. If no egg cell is released (ovulation), you cannot get pregnant.
