NuvaRing is a birth control medication used to prevent pregnancy. It is a single product containing 2 kinds of female hormones: etonogestrel, a progestin, and ethinyl estradiol, an estrogen. NuvaRing works by preventing ovulation (the release of an egg from the ovaries). It also changes the lining of the uterus (womb) to prevent pregnancy from developing and changes the mucus at the cervix (opening of the uterus) to prevent sperm from entering.
This medication comes as a flexible vaginal ring and is inserted and left in place for 3 weeks. After 3 weeks, it is removed for a 1-week break, then a new ring is inserted.
Common side effects of NuvaRing include headache, mood changes, and weight gain.
WARNING: CIGARETTE SMOKING AND SERIOUS CARDIOVASCULAR EVENTS
Cigarette smoking increases the risk of serious cardiovascular events from combination hormonal contraceptive (CHC) use. This risk increases with age, particularly in women over 35 years of age, and with the number of cigarettes smoked. For this reason, CHCs, including NuvaRing, should not be used by women who are over 35 years of age and smoke.
