Product Description of the Nuva Ring: The NuvaRing is a relatively new, reversible, form of contraceptive. It is a clear flexible ring that slowly releases a low dose of two kinds of hormones over a three week period to prevent pregnancy. The ring is kept in for three weeks and then removed. During the fourth week, without the ring inside, a woman will have her period. It is important to remember that the NuvaRing does not protect against any STDs, including HIV.
How to the Nuva Ring: The ring is inserted in the vagina, the exact position of the ring is not important. Once inserted a woman does not have to do anything else with the ring. It should not cause any discomfort (although I have read some women online write about being aware of the ring during penetration play).
Failure Rates for the Nuva Ring: The ring is considered at least as effective as the birth control pill, with less than one woman out of every 100 using the ring becoming pregnant with correct use.
Cost of the Nuva Ring: From $25-$35 per ring (this cost may be covered by Medicaid).
Where to Get the Nuva Ring: The ring requires a prescription written by a physician.
Side Effects of the Nuva Ring:
- Weight gain or loss
- Nausea
- Changes in mood
- Increased vaginal discharge, and vaginal irritation or infection
Things to Watch Out for with the Nuva Ring:
- As with the pill, some medicines can reduce its effectiveness.
- Unopened packages cannot be exposed to high temperatures.
- The ring does not from STDs, including HIV.
- Check the expiration date on the package before using the ring.
- If it slips out it must be replaced within three hours
- Is left in for more than 3 weeks it will no longer be effective
Going Off the Nuva Ring: When going off the ring it usually takes between one to three months for your regular period to return. For some women this will be much longer, and for others their cycle will return to the way it was before using the ring soon after discontinuing use.
While many health care practitioners say that with hormone based contraception people should try it for at least three months, if something is not working for you it is recommended that you speak to your doctor.
Who Should Not Use the Nuva Ring: People who smoke, have a history of high blood pressure, heart attacks, or certain kinds of stroke you should not use the ring. For other specific concerns talk to your health care practitioner.
Contraception Information on About.com:
The following information is compiled from a variety of sources, including the CDC, information from drug manufacturers, Planned Parenthood, and Family Health International.
We strive to keep this information up to date, but new studies and information about side effects and effectiveness may not be reflected immediately in this information. This should be used as a guide only, and a health care professional should be consulted when considering a new or changed contraceptive method.
