Roughly resembling your average ponytail holder, the rings are loaded with two hormones, a progestin and an estrogen, which they gradually release while inserted. How do vaginal birth control rings work?īirth control rings like the NuvaRing and Annovera are made of a soft, bendable plastic (they don’t contain latex), that you easily insert by hand into your vagina. We’ll run through what they are, how they work, and what you need to know before choosing a ring. If you’re thinking of starting to use a birth control ring or have questions about the one you’re using, you’re in the right place. Rings are proven and effective for most people, but it’s still best to check with your doctor first. 2 They come with many of the same precautions as other forms of hormonal birth control, but there are a few specific side effects to think about. Vaginal birth control rings are between 97% and 99% effective 1 if used properly, depending on the brand. Eluryng is the generic version of NuvaRing, which means its hormone formulation and instructions are the same, but it might be available at a lower price. That includes the type of hormones the ring contains, how much of them it releases, and how often you need to change the ring out. They’re broadly similar, but each has some slight differences that can matter for your individual body. There are a few birth control ring options to pick from, including Annovera, NuvaRing, and Eluryng. But there are some extra side effects to birth control rings that mean they’re not always right for everyone.

The ring is easy to use, and, unlike the pill, you won’t need to remember to take something every day. You insert this flexible ring into your vagina, where it releases a small daily dose of hormones to prevent pregnancy. The vaginal birth control ring - or, “the ring” - is a popular option for many people seeking hormonal birth control.

Birth control ring