The vaginal ring, or contraceptive vaginal ring is plastic and contains the same hormones as the combined pill (oestrogen and progestogen). It works in the same way as the combined pill. It is placed in the vagina, and can remain there during sexual intercourse. It can also be removed for up to three hours before being put back. The ring should be taken out after three weeks, after which time there will be a period. When this is finished, a new ring is inserted into the vagina.