What is it?

NuvaRing is a flexible, transparent ring that is approximately 2 inches (5cm) in diameter.  Once a month, you insert NuvaRing into your vagina where it slowly releases 2 hormones (estrogen and progestin)

How does it work?

The 2 hormones contained within the ring are slowly released throughout a 21-day treatment period.  The hormones prevent your ovaries from producing an egg and also cause a women’s cervical mucous to thicken into a jelly-like substance, making it difficult for sperm to travel through the cervix and into the uterus (where pregnancy can occur).  Once the 21-day treatment period is complete, the ring is removed for 7-days, allowing you to have your period.  A new ring is inserted for the next treatment period.

Remember, NuvaRing protects against pregnancy but DOES NOT protect you from Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)

How effective is it?

NuvaRing is 99% effective in preventing pregnancy when used as directed

 Possible Side Effects (NuvaRing has a low incidence of side effects)

• Spotting
• Headache
• Weight gain
• Breast tenderness
• Vaginitis (vaginal infection)
• Sinusitus (sinus infection)
• Leukorrhea (white vaginal discharge)
• Upper respiratory tract infection
• Nausea (feeling like you will be sick / vomit)
• Smoking increases your chances of developing heart and vessel complications (problems).  This risk is further increased in women over the age of 35.

NuvaRing is a good choice for you if you are looking for a method that:

• Is a low dose hormonal contraceptive (birth control)
• Is easy to remember, you only insert and remove NuvaRing once a month (requires no day-to-day routine)

NuvaRing is not for you, IF:

•  You are uncomfortable with insertion and removal of the ring

Important points

• A doctor’s prescription is necessary to obtain this form of birth control. If you do not have a family doctor, one can be provided for you at the Health Unit.

• NuvaRing does not have to be removed when having sexual intercourse (sex)
• If NuvaRing falls out, rinse it with cool water and re-insert the ring into your vagina.  If you insert NuvaRing within 3 hours of the time it fell out, you should still be protected from pregnancy.

For additional information on the NuvaRing or other questions related to sexual health contact the Windsor Essex County Health Unit at (519) 258-2146 ext 1200 or 1201

The Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada. (2000). Sex Sense:

Canadian Contraceptive Guide. Ottawa, ON.

The Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada. (2000). Choosing a

contraceptive that’s right for you…. Ottawa, ON.

NuvaRing product monograph and website: www.nuvaring.ca

Reviewed May 1, 2007

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