Contraceptive vaginal ring

(Nuvaring ^®)

91% effective

This is a small flexible plastic ring which a woman can easily insert into her vagina. It stays in place for 3 weeks, and is removed for one week during which a period will occur. A new ring is inserted after that. It contains the same hormones as the combined oral contraceptive pill, but they are released into the vagina instead of the gut.

Pros

It does not interfere with sex
Periods may become lighter and less painful
It still works if you have vomiting or diarrhoea, whereas the contraceptive pill may not
You don’t have to remember a daily dose
Normal fertility returns when you stop taking it
If you decide you wish to become pregnant, there is little or no delay to return to fertility when you stop using the Nuvaring

Cons

If you smoke and are over 35, if you have migraine with aura, or any contraindications to the combined oral contraceptive pill, it may not be suitable for you (see detailed information leaflet below).
Some women get side effects (see detailed information leaflet below)
It requires a new prescription every 6-12 months and annual blood pressure check
It cannot be used if breastfeeding as it can cause reduced milk supply
It may occasionally fall out during sex, or while passing a bowel motion
It does not prevent sexually transmitted infections

Qoctor does not offer prescriptions for the vaginal contraceptive ring- if you’d like to discuss this option, we suggest you speak to your GP or family planning clinic

For more detailed information about the Nuvaring, click here

See more contraception options on our hub page

Contraceptive vaginal ring

Pros

Cons

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