Cost
Using the ring is comparable in cost to using birth control pills.
Side Effects
Women are strongly advised not to smoke while using any hormonal contraceptives, including the vaginal ring, and should consult with their health care provider about different options if they have contributing health conditions such as high blood pressure or heart disease.
How It Works
While the ring is in place and hormones are being released, the ovaries do not produce any eggs for fertilization. A new ring is inserted and left in place for three weeks. At the beginning of the fourth week, it is removed and menstruation begins. When the ring is removed, the ability to become pregnant returns quickly, so an alternative method should be used when birth control is still desired.