Estradiol (Vaginal Ring)

Women who don’t want to get pregnant sometimes use a vaginal ring in order to protect themselves. The vaginal ring contains Estradiol and some other medications that help raise estrogen levels and protect against unwanted pregnancies. The woman inserts the ring into her vagina and leaves it there for three weeks, then takes it out for a week before inserting a new ring.

Side Effects/Warnings

Women who use this method of birth control should not smoke. Smoking while on this medication increases the risk of blood clots, heart attacks and strokes. Women who are over the age of 35 are at increased risk of these problems regardless of whether or not they smoke.

If a woman experiences vaginal bleeding while on this medication, other than during her menstrual period, it could indicate endometrial cancer. Women should see their doctors immediately if they experience unexplained vaginal bleeding; all women on this drug should be tested regularly for endometrial cancer.