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The Vaginal Ring (Nuva Ring)

What is the vaginal ring? 
  • The vaginal ring is a small, soft, flexible plastic ring placed into the vagina. 
  • It contains man-made hormones similar to the natural hormones that already exist in your body.
  • The ring slowly releases hormones into the body through the vagina.
How does the vaginal ring work? 
  • The vaginal ring prevents your ovaries from releasing an ovum (egg) each month. 
  • The ring makes the cervical mucus thicker. This makes it harder for sperm to enter the cervix. 
  • The ring changes the lining of the uterus. The lining gets thinner so it is harder for a fertilized egg to stick to the uterus.
How do I use the vaginal ring? 
  • The vaginal ring comes in only one size. It fits into the vagina of any woman. 
  • Insert the vaginal ring on the first day of your menstrual period. 
  • Use your thumb and index finger to press the sides of the ring together. Gently push the folded ring inside your vagina. You can place it anywhere in your vagina. 
  • If you insert the ring deep in your vagina, you will be less likely to feel it. This will also reduce the chance of slipping out of your vagina. 
  • Leave the ring inside your vagina for three weeks. Then remove the ring. You will get your period during this ring-free week.
  • Following the ring-free week, insert a new ring to continue protection from pregnancy and start a new cycle. Insert the new ring on the same day of the week each month.
How soon does the vaginal ring start working? 
  • The vaginal ring starts working after it has been in the vagina for 14 days.
  • Use another method of birth control for the first 14 days.
How effective is the vaginal ring? 
The vaginal ring prevents pregnancy 98% -99% of the time, when you use the ring correctly.

Are there any side effects? 
You may feel some minor side effects. If they are very uncomfortable, talk to your health care provider. Minor side effects include: 
  • Bleeding between periods 
  • Breast discomfort 
  • Headaches 
  • Nausea 
  • Vaginal irritation 
  • Vaginal discharge
What to do if the vaginal ring falls out? 
  • If the vaginal ring falls out, rinse it with cool or lukewarm water. Put it back into the vagina and contact your health care provider. 
What to do if I forget to take the ring out? 
  • If you leave the ring in the vagina for more than 28 days, remove it at once. Insert a new ring. Use another method of birth control for the next 14 days.
What to do if I forget to insert the vaginal ring after the week off? 
Insert the ring as soon as you remember. Use another method of birth control for the next 14 days.

What if I miss my period? 
Contact your health care provider to ask about a pregnancy test.

Is the vaginal ring safe for all women to use? 
  • No. Ask your health care provider if it is right for you. Tell him/her about any medical problems.
  • If you smoke, the vaginal ring may not be right for you.
Does the vaginal ring protect me from STIs (Sexually Transmitted Infections)? 
  • No. The vaginal ring does not protect you against STIs. 
  • Always use a condom when you have sex.  
Where can I get the vaginal ring?  The contraceptive patch requires a prescription from a physician or nurse practitioner. 
You can take your prescription to:
  • A pharmacy
  • A teen clinic 
  • A sexual health clinic
Note: if this method fails, and if you don’t want to get pregnant, see a health care provider for emergency contraception as soon as you can.

For more information please call the Sexual Health Program:
Ph: 578-2513
E-mail: sexualhealthprogram@brandonrha.mb.ca