Effects of a Vaginal Contraceptive Ring on Vaginal Microbiota and Local Immunity

Effects of a Vaginal Contraceptive Ring on Vaginal Microbiota and Local Immunity

To assess potential benefits associated with both intermittent (use for 3 weeks, remove for 1 week, as defined in the package insert) and continuous (use for 4 weeks, then replace) CVR use among women either with BV or at high risk for BV. The investigators will also recruit women who are HSV2-infected.

Inclusion Criteria:

• ≥18-40 year old women
• BV+ by Amsel criteria and Nugent score OR history of BV in the prior 6 months
• Willing to use the NuvaRing as directed
• Not intending or wishing to become pregnant over the course of the study
• Capable of providing written informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

• Current pregnancy
• Desire/intent to become pregnant over the course of the study
• Women who are less than 6 weeks postpartum
• Contraindications to hormonal contraceptive use per package insert, including history of deep vein thrombosis, smoking in women older than 35 years
• Current IUD
• Unable to comprehend consent material because of language barrier or psychological difficulty