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A comparison between the vaginal ring and oral contraceptives
Sharry Veres1, Leslie Miller, Bart Burington
1St. Joseph's Hospital and Medical Center Family Medicine, Phoenix, Arizona, USA.
Obstetrics and Gynecology
|September 2, 2004
Summary
Contraceptive vaginal ring use is well tolerated and may improve vaginal flora, though some users report increased vaginal wetness compared to oral contraceptives. This study compared vaginal ring and oral contraceptive effects on genital health.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Health
- Gynecology
- Microbiology
Background:
- Contraceptive vaginal rings and oral contraceptives are common birth control methods.
- Understanding their comparative effects on vaginal health is important for patient counseling.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare genital symptoms, signs, and laboratory findings between contraceptive vaginal ring and oral contraceptive pill use.
- To assess the impact of these methods on vaginal flora composition and function.
Main Methods:
- Randomized controlled trial comparing vaginal ring and oral contraceptive pill use over 6 cycles.
- Daily symptom diaries and regular pelvic examinations with vaginal discharge, Gram stain, white cell count, and cultures for yeast and Lactobacillus.
Main Results:
- Vaginal ring use was associated with increased vaginal wetness (63% vs 43%) and enhanced hydrogen peroxide production by Lactobacillus compared to oral contraceptives.
- No significant differences were observed in yeast counts, Nugent Gram stain scores, white blood cell counts, or vaginal pH.
Conclusions:
- Contraceptive vaginal rings are well-tolerated and appear to positively influence vaginal flora, despite a potential increase in reported vaginal wetness.
- These findings suggest comparable safety profiles regarding genital health for both methods.