Description
The Ring is marketed under the brand name NuvaRing ® . It is a soft, flexible ring (about two inches in diameter) that is inserted into the vagina once a month. It stays in place for three weeks, and is removed for the fourth week. You should have your period during the fourth week.

How It Works
The muscles in the vaginal wall keep NuvaRing ® in place. While in the vagina, it slowly releases low doses of the hormones progestin and estrogen. This prevents the ovaries from releasing an egg (ovulation).

Should You Use It?
The Ring is great for women who want an easy-to-use method of birth control. There is nothing to remember on a daily or weekly basis.

Effectiveness
NuvaRing ® has been proven to be 99% effective, the same as the Pill, when used as directed.

STI Protection
The Ring does not prevent the transmission of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including HIV.

Advantages

• The Ring is easy to use; it is inserted and removed just once a month.
• This method uses less than half of the estrogen used in some birth control pills.
• You don't have to remember a pill each day, as with oral contraceptives.
• Since the Ring releases a steady, consistent dose of hormones each month, it produces a lower incidence of headaches, nausea, breakthrough bleeding and breast tenderness then most oral contraceptives.
• The Ring causes fewer hormonal ups and downs than most hormonal methods.
• Doesn't require any interruption of sex play to protect against pregnancy.

Disadvantages

• Normally, the Ring stays in place. If it should fall out, follow the manufacturer's instructions for reinsertion. If it is out for longer than 3 hours, you will need to reinsert the Ring, and then use another form of birth control for the next 7 days.
• NuvaRing ® requires a prescription.
• Some women experience increased vaginal discharge or vaginal infection.
• The risk of getting blood clots may be greater with the type of progestin in NuvaRing ® than with some other progestins in certain low-dose birth control pills.
• It is unknown if the risk of blood clots is different with NuvaRing ® use than with the use of certain birth control pills.
• Cigarette smoking increases the risk of high blood pressure and heart disease; women who use combination hormonal contraceptives are strongly advised not to smoke.
• NuvaRing ® does not protect you from HIV or other infections.
• Consult with your health care provider to determine whether you have any medical conditions that would be intensified while using NuvaRing ® .

Where to Buy It
In the United States, The Ring requires a prescription. You can get NuvaRing ® from your doctor, nurse practitioner, nurse midwife, health department or family planning clinic.

Follow Up
Consult your doctor for complete information on potential side effects.

Contraception Overview