The birth control Ring (NuvaRing) is a soft, flexible, doughnut-shaped ring about 2 inches (5 centimeters) in diameter. It is inserted into the vagina, where it slowly releases hormones through the vaginal wall into the bloodstream. The hormones in the ring affect the ovaries and the uterus in order to prevent pregnancy. It can be left in place during swimming, bathing, and exercise. It can also remain in place during intercourse.
Like the birth control pill or the Patch, a woman uses the NuvaRing based on her monthly menstrual cycle. It is kept in place for 3 weeks and then removed. Within a few days, the menstrual period should start. At the end of the fourth week, on the same day of the week the last ring was inserted, a new ring is inserted and the process begins again.
How to decide if the Ring is a good birth control choice for you:
- If you have trouble swallowing a pill or can't remember to take a daily birth control pill at the same time every day or to change a patch each week, this can be a good choice.
- If you do not want a long term method
- If you do not want an injection
- You must feel comfortable enough with your body to be able to insert a device into the vagina.
- The Ring is not recommended for women who have had blood clots, severe high blood pressure, certain types of cancers, certain types of migraine headaches, or diabetes with certain problems.
Please learn more about the NuvaRing by choosing any of the questions below.
How effective is the Ring?
The Ring is 95-99% effective. The NuvaRing cannot “get lost,” and is very unlikely to fall out. However, if your NuvaRing does come out of your vagina before directed and has been out of your vagina for more than three hours or if you aren’t sure how long it’s been out, you must use condoms and vaginal spermicide until the ring has been in place for seven days in a row.
How do I get the Ring?
You must get a prescription for the NuvaRing from your health care provider.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of using the Ring?
Advantages:
- Does not require a “fitting” by a health care provider
- Does not require spermicide
- Can make periods more regular and less painful
- No pill to take daily
- Ability to become pregnant returns quickly after stopping the ring
- The exact position of the ring in the vagina is not critical as long as it feels comfortable
Disadvantages & Side Effects:
- Vaginal irritation or infections
- Vaginal discharge
- Headache
- Weight gain
- Nausea
What are the warning signs of problems with the Ring?
Contact your health care provider immediately if you experience any of the following:
- Severe headaches, esp. with vision disturbances
- Severe abdominal pain or chest pain
- Severe leg pain with swelling
- Irregular vaginal bleeding or spotting that happens in more than 1 menstrual cycle or lasts for more than a few days
- jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyeballs)
- Sudden fever (usually 102°F or more), vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness, fainting, or a sunburn-like rash on the face or body (very rarely, toxic shock syndrome)
SPECIAL NOTES
The Ring does not protect you against STDs (sexually transmitted diseases). Use condoms and spermicide along with the patch to prevent transmission of HIV and other STDs. Have a pregnancy test promptly if you suspect you could be pregnant. Always inform health care providers that you are on the Ring. This is especially important if you are prescribed other medications, if you are hospitalized, or if you are being treated for a medical problem.