What should you know about hormonal contraceptive ring?

The ring is placed inside the vagina, where it releases combined hormones that mainly prevent ovulation. It also changes cervical mucus and the womb lining. You do not need to place it against a precise spot for it to work, but it must be used according to the product instructions and replaced on time.

Some people notice more predictable bleeding, while others have spotting, vaginal irritation, nausea, breast tenderness or headaches. The ring does not protect against sexually transmitted infections. A clinician will check whether combined hormonal contraception is appropriate for you.

Wash your hands before insertion and removal, follow the prescribed schedule and use a reminder for replacement. If the ring comes out, the action depends on how long it was out and where you are in the cycle, so follow the product instructions or contact a pharmacist or clinician rather than guessing.

Tell your clinician about migraine with aura, previous blood clots, high blood pressure, liver disease, smoking, recent childbirth and medicines or supplements. A progestogen-only method or a non-hormonal option may be considered when combined hormones are unsuitable. The combined pill is another combined-hormone option to compare.

Seek urgent help for sudden chest pain, severe breathlessness, coughing blood, one-sided leg swelling or pain, sudden weakness, trouble speaking or a sudden severe headache. These can signal a serious problem and should not be dismissed as a routine side effect.

Arrange a review for persistent headaches, troublesome bleeding, severe abdominal pain, yellowing of the skin, vision changes or a blood pressure concern. Contact a clinician if you cannot keep to the schedule or think pregnancy is possible.

Ask whether the ring is suitable with your migraine, blood pressure, clotting and medication history. Clarify the insertion schedule, what to do after late replacement or expulsion, expected bleeding changes and when another method would be safer.