After the birth of my son, I was using a POP--which seem to be ok. I am sure that my candida would be better with out it, but what can you do. After I finished nursing, I switched to the regular pill. Within the first week I had an ear fungal infection, skin fungal infection and other candida sympton flare-ups. I than took Depro Provera (progesteron (sp.?) shot) good for three months. It seems to be fine with the candida. I don't have any experience with the ring--not available here.