Q.
What is the NuvaRing®, and is it effective?
A.
NuvaRing is ideal for women who want a method of contraception
that is effective, discreet and above all convenient.
When used as directed, NuvaRing is 99% effective; that’s
every bit as effective as the pill
and patch. However, unlike women who use those methods,
NuvaRing users need only think about contraception once
a month. This method will not protect you from STDs!
Use it with condoms for STD
prevention.
Here
is a photo a the NuvaRing.You insert the NuvaRing®
into your vagina only once a month. The muscles in your
vaginal wall will keep it in place for three weeks. During
that time, it will slowly release a low dose of hormones
needed to prevent pregnancy. It is only available by prescription,
so you must visit a health care provider to get a prescription
for one.
Q.
How Does it work?
A.
You
insert the NuvaRing® into your vagina only once a
month. The NuvaRing® contains two types of hormones,
estrogen and progestin, that prevent your ovaries from
producing mature eggs. NuvaRing® provides benefits
similar to the pill, but without the daily pill to remember
to take on time. The hormones are released by contact
with the vagina. The walls of your vagina absorb the hormones
and distribute them into your bloodstream.
Q.
Is it for you?
A.
Not if you smoke or have heart disease and keep in mind
the NuvaRing® does not protect against HIV
infection and other sexually transmitted diseases. If
you do smoke, discuss the risks with your health care
provider.
The
use of combination oral contraceptives is associated with
increased risks of several serious side effects, including
blood clots, which may lead to stroke or heart attack.
It is unknown if the risk of blood clots is different
with NuvaRing® use than with the use of certain birth
control pills. Cigarette
smoking increases the risk of high blood pressure
and heart disease.
