Nuva Ring

About NuvaRing

NuvaRing is a small, flexible, plastic pessary device. It contains two hormones - an oestrogen; ethinylestradiol, and progestin; etonogestrel.

NuvaRing releases 15 micrograms of ethinylestradiol and 120 micrograms of etonogestrel over 24 hours. These two hormones prevent ovulation (the release of an egg cell from the ovaries) from occuring while also increasing the viscosity of the vaginal fluids, making it difficult for sperm to travel to the womb.

It has an outer diameter of 54mm and a cross-sectional diameter of 4mm. It is flexible and can be manipulated to make insertion and removal easier. The vaginal ring is made of transparent plastic and is safe whilst inside the vagina.

With corect use, NuvaRing is 98% effective at preventing unwanted pregnancy.

You can buy NuvaRing online from Prescription Doctor following a quick consultation with our doctor.

How to use NuvaRing?

NuvaRing is inserted once a month, preferably at the beginning of your usual monthly menstrual cycle. It is removed after 3 weeks (21 days). This is followed by a 7 days ring-free interval where you will usually experience a menstrual bleed. A new NuvaRing is inserted after the 7 days.

How to safely insert NuvaRing

• Wash your hand and ensure they are clean and dry.
• Compress the ring between your thumb and index finger.
• Find a suitable and comfortable position - by sitting standing or lying down.
• Insert NuvaRing using one hand, the other hand can be used to spread the labia to make insertion easier.
• Push NuvaRing in slowly until it is comfortable and not causing you irritation or discomfort.
• You can adjust the position of the device until it is comfortable.
• Keep NuvaRing inserted for 3 weeks.

How to safely remove NuvaRing

• Wash your hands and ensure they are clean and dry before removing NuvaRing.
• Use your index finger and hook the device, gently pull and remove.
• You can use your index finger and middle finger to grip it and gently remove.
• Dispose of NuvaRing by putting it in the foil package provided and throw away in the bin. Do not flush the device down the toilet.

The NuvaRing website offers an in depth guide on how to insert and remove the ring safely.

Adverse effects

There are always negative effects from using hormonal devices. Some common effects are listed, the incidence and likelihood is low as nuvaRing is normally well tolerated.

Some side effects include but not limited to:

• Headache
• Vaginal or cervical irritation
• Vaginal discharge
• Vaginal discomfort - can move the ring into a more comfortable position
• Breast enlargement and tenderness
• Decreased libido (sexual desire)
• Breakthrough bleeding or spotting - usually transient and diminishes after a few months
• Can increase Blood Pressure and Blood Sugar levels. Make sure the levels are within range before using the Nuva Ring.

NuvaRing and other Medication

NuvaRing releases hormones to the bloodstream. Due to this, there can be negative effects when taking other medication together.

• Anti-epileptics - Carbamazepine, Phenytoin, Topiramate
• St Johns Wort
• Rifamycin antibiotics
• Antiretrovirals
• Phenindione.

FAQ

Will NuvaRing dissolve?

NuvaRing does not dissolve. After 3 weeks, you will need to remove the ring and insert a new one.

How do I store NuvaRing?

NuvaRing should be stored below 25°C (room temperature) and used within 4 months. Always check the expiration date on the packaging before using.

What does NuvaRing feel like when inserted?

Some women can feel it is there, but many women don’t feel the ring once it’s in position. If you feel discomfort, try repositioning the pessery device until it is comfortable.

You or your partner may feel NuvaRing during intercourse.

Can the NuvaRing get lost inside you?

No, the NuvaRing cannot get lost inside you. The cervix prevents the ring from going too far. If you know the ring is inserted but cannot feel it with your fingers, speak to your doctor immediately.

What should I do if the ring breaks?

If the ring breaks but stays in your vagina, the effectiveness should remain the same and added protection isn’t necessary.

If the ring breaks and falls out of your vagina, throw the broken ring into the bin and insert a new ring as soon as possible. Do not flush the broken ring down the toilet.

What should I do if NuvaRing comes out?

NuvaRing can fall out or be expelled from your vagina during intercourse or strenuous bowel movements.

If the ring has been out for less than 3 hours, rinse the ring in cool to lukewarm water, dry it and reinsert it as soon as possible.

If it has been 3 hours, but you are in the first or second week of treatment, rinse the ring in cool to warm water and reinsert as soon as possible.

If it has been 3 hours, but you are in the third week of treatment you can either:

Insert a new ring and continue the 21 day course. You may not have a period but you may experience spotting or bleeding.

Insert a new ring in no later than 7 days - you should use another form of contraception such as condoms for a week in this case. Do not flush the old ring down the toilet.

Can I use tampons with NuvaRing?

Yes. Insert the NuvaRing before you insert your tampon. Be careful when removing your tampon as it may cause your ring to fall out. If this happens, wash your NuvaRing in cool to lukewarm water and reinsert it as soon as possible.

Table of contents

About Nuva Ring

How to use Nuva Ring

Adverse effects

FAQ