How are NuvaRings used for contraception?
One NuvaRing is placed in the vagina in the vicinity of the cervix and is worn for three weeks. It is then removed. The fourth week is ring-free to permit withdrawal bleeding. The delicate two-inch in diameter ring delivers both an estrogen and progestin and this stops ovulation. Used correctly and consistently the ring leads to only 3 pregnancies among 1,000 women using the ring for one year! You do not need a back-up method during the seven ring-free days.
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What are the advantages of The Ring?
- You don't have to take a pill daily or interrupt sex to use a barrier contraceptive.
- Rings decrease a woman's menstrual cramps and pain.
- Rings decrease the amount of menstrual bleeding and a woman's risk for anemia.
- Acne may improve and facial hair is diminished.
- Many women enjoy sex more when using NuvaRings.
- You can use rings for an extended period of time or continuously (with no hormone-free intervals).
- Each ring has enough hormones to suppress ovulation for up to 35 days, so you can be a number of days late putting in a new ring.
- The dose of estrogen is lower in the case of the NuvaRing than it is for the two other combined hormonal contraceptives, the pill and the patch.
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What are the disadvantages of The Ring?
- Rings do not protect you from HIV or other infections. Use condoms if you may be at risk.
- You may have spotting (mostly during the first few cycles using rings).
- Using NuvaRings may cause headaches, depression, mood changes, or decreased enjoyment of sex (infrequent).
- Serious complications such as blood clots may occur but are rare.
- Rings cost about $ 40.00 per month or $400.00 per year.
- A back-up contraceptive for seven days is recommended if there is any question about starting the use of a new ring.
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Where can I get NuvaRings?
You will need a prescription from your nurse practitioner, physician, nurse midwife or physician's associate.
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