A nurse is caring for a patient who uses a contraceptive vaginal ring.

Which of the following symptoms should the nurse instruct the patient to report immediately?

The correct answer is choice A.COCs prevent pregnancy byinhibiting the production of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH), which are responsible for ovulation.

By suppressing ovulation, COCs prevent the release of a mature egg that can be fertilized by sperm.

Choice B is wrong because COCs do not increase the production of prostaglandins that cause uterine contractions.

Prostaglandins are involved in inflammation and pain, and are not directly related to contraception.

Choice C is wrong because COCs do not decrease the permeability of the fallopian tubes to sperm and egg.

The fallopian tubes are the site of fertilization, and COCs do not affect their function.

Choice D is partially correct but not the best answer.COCs do suppress ovulation, but they also have other mechanisms of action, such asthickening cervical mucusandaltering the uterine lining.

These effects make it harder for sperm to reach the egg and for a fertilized egg to implant in the uterus.

Therefore, choice D does not capture the full mechanism of action of COCs.

The correct answer is choice C. OCs can decrease menstrual blood loss and cramps.This is because OCs prevent ovulation and thin the lining of the uterus, which reduces the amount of bleeding and cramping during menstruation.

Choice A is wrong because OCs do not provide protection against STIs.The only contraceptive methods that can prevent STIs are barrier methods, such as condoms.

Choice B is wrong because OCs can have variable effects on libido and sexual satisfaction.

Some women may experience an increase, while others may experience a decrease or no change at all.This depends on individual factors, such as hormone levels, mood, and relationship quality.

Choice D is wrong because OCs can also have variable effects on mood and depression.

Some women may experience an improvement, while others may experience a worsening or no change at all.This also depends on individual factors, such as hormone sensitivity, stress, and history of mental health problems.