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The vaginal ring & the patch

Same hormones as the combined pill – no daily pill required.

Contraception4 min read

Written by the Splash teamSources checked

On this page 4 sections
  1. Quick answer
  2. The ring
  3. The patch
  4. Sources

Quick answer

  • Same hormones as the combined pill, different delivery.
  • Ring: 3 weeks in, 1 week out. Patch: weekly for 3 weeks, 1 week off.
  • Over 99% perfect use, 91% typical.
  • Some medicines can make them less effective.

The ring and the patch both release oestrogen and progestogen, just like the combined pill. They’re over 99% effective used perfectly and 91% with typical use. Fertility usually returns within 1 to 3 months of stopping.

The ring

  • A soft, flexible ring about 5cm across that you put in your vagina – a bit like a tampon
  • Leave it in for 21 days, then take a 7-day break
  • You shouldn’t be able to feel it, including during sex
  • Started on days 1–5 of your period: protected straight away

The patch

  • A 5cm square sticker on clean, dry skin – arm, back, bottom or tummy
  • New patch every 7 days for 3 weeks, then a patch-free week
  • Not affected by vomiting (unless it comes off)
  • Started on days 1–5 of your period: protected straight away

Sources

  1. NHS – What is the vaginal ring?
  2. NHS – How to use the vaginal ring
  3. NHS – What is the contraceptive patch?
  4. NHS – How to use the contraceptive patch

Written by the Splash teamSources checked

This is general information, not medical advice. Splash can’t diagnose. If you’re worried, talk to a GP, pharmacist or sexual health clinic. In an emergency call 999 (UK) or 911 (US). How we write and check articles.

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