Health Topics
NuvaRing (vaginal ring)
Online Birth Control Education
The NuvaRing is a small, flexible ring that is inserted into the vagina once a month. The ring releases a low-dose combination of progestin and estrogen to provide month long contraception. The hormones prevent the ovaries from releasing an egg (ovulation) and the progestin thickens the cervical mucus, which helps to prevent the entry of sperm into the uterus. The NuvaRing can be removed for up to 3 hours but if it has been out for more than 3 hours, it should be reinserted and a backup method (such as condoms) should be used until ring has been in for 7 consecutive days.
Advantages
- Highly effective
- Predictable, regular menstrual cycles
- Easy to use
- Does not interfere with having sex
- Protection from ovarian cysts, cancer of the ovaries, cancer of the uterus
- Can be used continuously to decrease the number of periods
Disadvantages
- Must remember to remove and insert ring
- Woman needs to be comfortable with inserting the ring
- May have unscheduled bleeding or spotting during the first 2-3 cycles
- Offers no protection against sexually transmitted infections
Side Effects
Side effects are similar to other hormonal contraceptive methods and usually improve within 2-3 cycles
- Bleeding between periods
- Breast tenderness
- Nausea
- Changes in mood
- Increased vaginal discharge
- Vaginal irritation
More serious side effects (rare)
- Blood clots in the legs, lungs, heart or brain
- Benign liver tumors
- Heart attack and stroke
Cigarette Smoking and NuvaRing
Cigarette smoking increases the risk of serious cardiovascular side effects from combination birth control hormone methods. This risk increases with age and with heavy smoking (15 or more cigarettes per day) and is quite marked in smokers over 35 years of age.
Warning Signs of NuvaRing
The ring has been studied extensively and is very safe. However, very rarely the ring can lead to serious problems. The following are the warning signals to watch out for while using the ring.
- Abdominal Pain (severe)
- Chest Pain (severe), cough, shortness of breath
- Headache (severe) with blurred vision, weakness, difficulty speaking
- Eye problems-vision loss or blurring
- Leg Pain (severe)
If you have one of these symptoms, it may or may not be related to the ring. It is important to check with your health care provider as soon as possible.
Availability & Efficacy
- Availability: Available at Student Health Services by prescription
- Failure Rate: Typical use: data not available; Perfect use: 0.3%
Recommended Resources
- NuvaRing (manufacturer's website)
- Birth Control Vaginal Ring (NuvaRing) (Planned Parenthood)
Online Birth Control Education |
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last reviewed: Spring 2005