According to Dr. Mieusset's research, side effects are generally minor and limited to physical problems, without affecting emotional state or sexual desire. Nevertheless, according to testimonials from users outside clinical studies, certain problems can occur:
- Skin discomfort: May occur if the ring is worn too tightly, for too long, or during rigorous exercise. Skin discoloration may occur. This is reversible.
- Urethral stricture: This problem can develop with an excessively tight ring and may require corrective surgery if the problem worsens.
- Urinary difficulties: Some users have noted problems emptying the bladder completely when wearing a ring that is too small.
- Fungal infections: may develop if the ring is not cleaned sufficiently or if it is worn excessively.
- Changes in sperm quality: These changes may last between four and eight months after discontinuation of the method.
Every contraceptive method has side-effects that can be more or less annoying, but can also be appreciated in some cases.
When a side effect is deleterious, it becomes an undesirable, i.e. unwanted, effect. The possibility of its occurrence represents a risk, which must be weighed against therapeutic efficacy, in other words, the expected benefit for the patient.
This weighing up of expected benefits against incurred risks is known as the "benefit/risk balance".
Above all, bear in mind that if you experience pain or any other undesirable effect while wearing the thermal ring: stop wearing it immediately. Try again a few hours later. If the pain persists, ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice.
Here's a medical thesis that followed more than 970 ring users for more than 6 months from 2023 Guidarelli. Download it, it details the side effects.
Here are the side effects observed in an evaluation carried out on 200 volunteers in 2020:
Very common :
- Testicular volume reduced by 10-15% - 99
- Discomfort during sporting activities 14.35
- Local irritation or itching 25.24
Common :
- Pain during erections 3.96
- Pain at night 4.45
- Daily discomfort 6.93
- Pulls pubic hair 6.93
Rare:
- Cases of momentary residual micturition following urethral stenosis due to a ring size worn too small. Clearly, due to the compression effect, the urinary canal may prevent the normal flow of urine, and a few residual drops may escape after a trip to the toilet. If this happens to you, stop wearing the ring. This side effect is rare and can be reversed by changing to another size.
Undetermined frequency:
- Reversible alteration of chromatin integrity & reversible alteration of chromosome number - reversible under 2 to 3 cycles of spermatogenesis (Ahmad et al. Fertil. Steril. 2012)
- Reversible sperm aneuploidy (Abdemhamid et al. Reprod. Biol. 2019)
- Loss of sensation during intercourse
- Skin discoloration
- Pollakiuria - urethral stricture
- Temporary back pain
- Motion reduction
- Allergic reactions
Strict adherence to use and care instructions is crucial to reduce the risk of these undesirable effects, and to consult a healthcare professional in the event of any worrying signs.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this FAQ is based on user testimonials and is for general information purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis or professional treatment. We are not medical doctors. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized and appropriate medical advice. We accept no responsibility for any consequences arising from the use of the information provided in this FAQ. Send us an e-mail.
