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The
ring has the hormones estrogen and progestin that stop ovulation
(prevent the release of an egg from the ovaries). It can also
stop the sperm from entering the egg. The ring is a soft,
flexible, clear colored ring that is put into the vagina and left in
for 3 weeks. The brand name is NuvaRing®. |
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does NOT prevent sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Male and
female condoms are the only forms of birth control that also offer
protection against STIs. |
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A
prescription of the ring contains one ring. A woman inserts the
ring into the vagina for 3 weeks, then it’s taken out or she goes
"ring-free" the fourth week, and that’s when the woman will get her
period.
- Check the expiration date. Do not insert the ring if it is expired.
- Wash hands with soap and water.
- The ring should be put in between the first and fifth day of a woman’s period.
- To
insert the ring, simply squeeze the ring together between the thumb and
index finger (similar to how a tampon is put in). Gently insert
the ring into the vagina.
- If the ring can still be felt, push it farther into the vagina. Don’t worry, it can’t get lost in there!
- Leave the ring in for three weeks.
- After
three weeks remove the ring. To remove the ring, hook the index
finger under the forward rim or grasp the rim between the index and
middle finger and pull it out.
- Wrap the ring in the original foil wrapper or a tissue and throw it away. Never flush the ring.
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Common
side effects of the ring include headaches, nausea (feeling like you
might throw up), breast tenderness, spotting (having bleeding that
happens between a woman’s period) or mood swings. These side
effects often go away within three to six months of use. |
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Some
women like the ring because they only have to think about it when
they’re putting it in and taking it out. But on the other hand,
some women don’t like the fact that they have to insert it into their
vagina.
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Women
need a prescription to get the ring, but getting a prescription can be
easy! She can get one through her family doctor or through a
family planning clinic. She can fill the prescription at a pharmacy, a
health clinic or a family planning clinic. |
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The
ring costs $50 to $60 each month. If you have health insurance,
it may pay for all or part of the cost. If you don't have health
insurance or don't want to use your parents' insurance, family planning clinics provide the ring at a lower cost. |
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The ring is 92% - 99% effective.
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