Subscribe now

A CONTRACEPTIVE ring could make life easier for women worried about the
hormone levels in their pill—or those who simply forget to take it.

The device, a flexible plastic ring just over 5 centimetres in diameter and 4
millimetres wide, is folded and inserted into the vagina once a month. The ring
springs back into shape around the cervix and releases hormones over the next
three weeks until a period is due. These hormones stop eggs from maturing and
being released, and thicken cervical mucus to make it tough for sperm to get
through. The inventors say you don’t…

Sign up to our weekly newsletter

Receive a weekly dose of discovery in your inbox. We'll also keep you up to date with New Scientist events and special offers.

Sign up

To continue reading, subscribe today with our introductory offers

Piano Exit Overlay Banner Mobile Piano Exit Overlay Banner Desktop