Birth Control Facts

Birth Control Ring

Some Basic Information About The Birth Control Ring

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Aside from the Mirena IUD, there are some other forms of implantable contraceptives that will work for short periods of time.  The birth control ring is a device that can be inserted and removed at will.  The contraceptive that is released from the ring will last for about three weeks. 

 

Basically, the birth control ring contains two different hormones.  The first one is estrogen.  Similar to the way oral contraceptives work, the estrogen found in a birth control ring inhibits ovulation.  On the other hand, progestin will cause vaginal secretions to become thicker and more sticky.  Thus, when a woman has intercourse, sperm will not be able to reach the uterus and fertilize any waiting eggs.


As with the Mirena IUD, women may also experience lighter or less frequent periods while using a birth control ring.  Because these contraceptives encourage less nutrient deposits in the endometrial layer, there will be less to shed during the period.  While this is also thought to reduce an embryo's ability to attach to the wall of the uterus, there is no proof that this type of inhibition occurs.

 

While oral contraceptives are often touted as being very reliable, the birth control ring is much more effective.  While 8% of women using birth control pills will get pregnant, only 1% of women using a birth control ring will.  And, as may be expected, because the birth control ring is located right where it needs to be in order to prevent conception, smaller amounts of hormone are required. 
As effective as the birth control ring is, there are some things than can make it less effective.  Among other things, using certain antibiotics or anti-seizure medicines can lead to contraception failure.  In addition, if you are taking oral medication to treat a yeast infection, this also may cause the birth control ring to fail.  Finally, medications used to treat certain psychiatric disorders, and HIV can also cause problems.  If you are not sure about whether or not a medication you are taking will interfere with the birth control ring, it is best to check with your doctor.

 

Aside from conventional medicines, there are a whole host of herbal supplements available to treat all kinds of conditions.  In addition to being largely unregulated, there may be very little information available about how these herbs will affect the efficiency of the birth control ring.  As with any other kind of medication, you will need to ask your doctor before using these supplements.  In order to be on the safe side, you may want to use condoms, or other sponges until you are sure that the birth control ring is working as it should.

 

Today, the birth control ring is one of the most reliable and safest birth control methods available.  Because it is easy to insert and remove, you will not need to consult with a doctor if you decide you want to stop using it.  In addition, the birth control ring also offers a simple device that does not require daily attention.