Birth Control | Vaginal RingVaginal Ring

The vaginal ring is a thin, flexible ring that is placed in the vagina. A single vaginal ring maintains a steady, low release rate of progestin and estrogen which stops the ovaries from releasing eggs. It also thickens the cervical mucus, which stops the sperm from joining with the egg. 

The NuvaRing is a vaginal ring that is left in place in the vagina for three weeks and then removed for one week to allow for menstrual bleeding. 

Annovera is a new vaginal ring that is slightly thicker than the NuvaRing. It is left in place in the vagina for three weeks, removed and washed, and then the same ring is replaced into the vagina after one week to allow menstrual bleeding. One Annovera ring lasts 1 year.


Effectiveness:

93% typical use

Greater than 99% effective when used perfectly


Things you may like about the vaginal ring:

  • Regulates menstrual cycle
  • Eases PMS symptoms such as bleeding, cramping etc.
  • Could decrease acne
  • Reduces the risk of ovarian/endometrial cancer
  • Decreases risk of benign breast tumors and  incidence of ovarian cysts
  • Easy to insert
  • Left in for 3 weeks

Things you may dislike about the vaginal ring:

  • Requires a clinic visit and prescription
  • Antibiotics may reduce effectiveness
  • Potential side-effects include:
    • Changes in your period including spotting
    • Breast tenderness
    • Nausea
    • Headaches
    • Increase in acne
    • Vaginal infections
    • Irritation
    • Discharge
    • Depression (rare)
    • Cardiovascular changes (rare)

Cost:*

$45 – $200 at MyAlly Health, depending on brand, however this method may be free or low cost for you. Ask about our sliding-fee-scale.

Can cost $250+ at other clinics.

*Disclaimer: Costs are an estimate. Additional or different services may be ordered by the provider that may not be included in this price. We may only carry one of the brands at a time. If we do not have the preferred method, we can write you a prescription.


Does it protect against STIs?

No. The vaginal rings do not protect from STIs. Use condoms to reduce the spread of STIs.


Disclaimer: This website is for educational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have.