How to Remove the Annovera Ring
Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water first. Find a comfortable position, like squatting or lying down with knees bent. Insert a clean finger into your vagina and feel for the ring—it's flexible and usually sits near the cervix. Hook your finger under the ring and gently pull it out. It may take a moment to locate, but avoid using tools like forceps.[1][2]
Cleaning Steps After Removal
Rinse the ring under lukewarm water—no soap, since it can damage the material. Pat it dry with a clean towel or let it air dry. Store it in its case away from sunlight and heat. Clean it right after removal and before reinsertion, ideally every 21 days or as your cycle requires.[1][3]
When and Why to Clean It
The Annovera ring stays in for 21 days per cycle, then remove for cleaning during your 7-day break. This prevents bacterial buildup and maintains hormone release. Repeat up to 13 cycles before replacement.[2][4]
What If It Gets Stuck or Hard to Remove?
Relax your pelvic muscles—tensing makes it tougher. Try bearing down like during a bowel movement while hooking the ring. If it won't come out after several tries, contact your doctor; don't force it. Rarely, it can migrate, requiring medical removal.[1][5]
Reinserting After Cleaning
Wait until you're ready (after the 7-day break). Pinch the ring into an oval shape and slide it high into the vagina toward the cervix. Position doesn't need to be exact for effectiveness. Check it's in place by feeling for it.[2][3]
Common Mistakes and Tips
- Skip hot water or harsh cleaners—they degrade the ring.
- Don't leave it out longer than recommended; resume within the cycle window.
- Track your cycles with an app to avoid forgetting removal day.
[1]: Annovera Prescribing Information, FDA.gov
[2]: Annovera Official Website, annovera.com/patient
[3]: Mayo Clinic Vaginal Ring Guide, mayoclinic.org
[4]: Planned Parenthood Birth Control Ring Instructions, plannedparenthood.org
[5]: WebMD Annovera User Guide, webmd.com