The Ring
What is the ring?
The ring (NuvaRing) is a small, flexible device that a woman inserts into her vagina once a month. She leaves it in place for three weeks and takes it out for the remaining week of her menstrual cycle. The ring releases combined hormones (estrogen and progestin) to protect against pregnancy. Although no studies have yet been published, experts believe that the ring will be as effective as the combined pill: out of 100 typical couples who rely on the ring for contraception, eight percent of women may accidentally get pregnant. Among women who use the ring perfectly, fewer than one percent should get pregnancy.
What are the advantages of the ring?
- Must be inserted only once each month;
- Means you don’t have to do anything at the time of sexual intercourse;
- Does not require fitting;
- Frequently causes more regular, lighter, and shorter periods;
- Helps prevent menstrual cramping and premenstrual symptoms as well as headaches and depression;
- May protect against medical problems such as ectopic pregnancy, pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), cysts, and cancer of the ovaries and of the uterus); and
What are the disadvantages?
- The ring does not provide any protection from STIs, including HIV. If there is any risk of infection, always use a condom as well.
- You must remember to keep the ring in place for three weeks and then to remove it three weeks to the day after you inserted it.
- You must remember to insert a new ring on the same day one week after you removed the old ring.
- You must wash your hands with soap and water prior to inserting the ring.
- The ring could slip out. If it does, you must replace it within three hours.
- You must wrap the ring in foil and throw it in the trash. It may not be flushed.
- The ring may cause increased spotting, breast tenderness, nausea and vomiting, and mood swings. These usually clear up within about three months after beginning use of the ring.
- The ring may cause vaginal irritation or infection and increased vaginal discharge.
- As with other forms of combined hormonal contraception, the ring slightly increases your risk of blood clots, especially if you are 35 or older and smoke.
How do I get the ring?
The ring is available by prescription only. You can get more information about this contraceptive method from your regular doctor or nurse practitioner, family planning clinic, and/or the patient insert accompanying the ring.
Additional Information >> Contraceptive Choices
Chart Comparing the Effectiveness of Various Methods :: Contraceptive
Myths & Facts :: Local Clinics & Hotlines
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