For ovulation to occur, a woman' s ovarian follicles must increase in size before they release the egg. To track the effect of the ring, researchers measured the size of the follicles. If no follicles were increasing in size, then the medicines in the ring were working, no eggs would be released and the contraceptive would work. Researchers also checked for levels of the hormone that would lead to ovulation. Using both measures, the size of the follicles and the level of hormones in the blood, it was clear that ovulation was suppressed by the use of the vaginal ring, thus making it an effective contraceptive device.
Improved contraception is an important goal.
ASRM has more than 8,500 members who are devoted to advancing knowledge and expertise in reproductive medicine and biology. ASRM-affiliate societies include the Society of Reproductive Surgeons, the Society for Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, the Society for Male Reproduction and Urology, and the Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology. Fertility and Sterility is now available on-line .