What is Nuvaring Birth Control?
Nuvaring Birth Control contains two hormones in a small, flexible ring that is worn vaginally to slowly and steadily release the hormones to prevent an unplanned pregnancy. You insert Nuvaring Birth Control into your vagina yourself and leave it in for three weeks (21 days,) then you remove it and go with nothing for seven complete days, at which time you should have a period. When day seven is done, insert a new Nuvaring Birth Control. Make certain you have a Nuvaring Birth Control ready to insert when required or you may risk a pregnancy if you have unprotected intercourse.
The active ingredients of Nuvaring Birth Control include Etonogestrel and Ethinyl Estradiol. The first is the hormone known as progestin and the other hormone is estrogen. These two hormones are found in most birth control pills, patches, and injections with the same success rate of about 98% when used properly. Human error is a common reason for an unplanned pregnancy. Nuvaring Birth Control takes the worry out of having to remember to take a daily pill.
How Nuvaring Birth Control Works
There is no 100% guarantee that your body will not ovulate while using any birth control method. The idea of birth control is to try and suppress your ovaries from releasing an egg. This is achieved by fooling your pituitary glands into thinking you are already pregnant so it produces less follicle stimulating hormone and luteinizing hormone that your body needs in order for ovulation to occur.
There are other changes that take place with the help of Nuvaring Birth Control that also make it more difficult for a pregnancy to take place. Your cervical fluid becomes thicker so sperm have trouble reaching an egg. Your uterine lining is underdeveloped so if an egg does become fertilized, it will not implant. And, finally, the movement of your Fallopian tubes is altered so the chance of fertilization of the ovum is greatly decreased.
Before You Use Nuvaring Birth Control
Take a pregnancy test to be certain you are not already pregnant before inserting Nuvaring Birth Control. Tell your doctor about other medical conditions and allergies you have and provide a list of all prescription drugs and over the counter medications you currently take or use, including herbal and vitamin supplements, to determine if Nuvaring Birth Control is safe for you.
Important Information About Nuvaring Birth Control
Nuvaring Birth Control does not protect you from contracting or spreading sexually transmitted diseases, including the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). If you are over 35 years of age and are a smoker, tell your doctor as Nuvaring Birth Control may pose higher risks of having a heart attack, stroke, or blood clots. Wash your hands thoroughly before and after inserting Nuvaring Birth Control or you may experience an infection. Before and/or after intercourse, check that the position of Nuvaring Birth Control has not been disturbed.
Possible Side Effects of Using Nuvaring Birth Control
- Discomfort
- Headache
- Mood changes
- Vaginal tissue irritation
Drugs Similar to Nuvaring Birth Control
The information provided on the NorthWestPharmacy.com website is intended to facilitate awareness about healthcare products and medical conditions generally but it is not a substitute for professional medical attention or advice. You should always speak with a qualified healthcare practitioner before taking any prescription or non-prescription drug.