Compare Methods

Method	NuvaRing^®	Combined Hormonal Pill	Patch
Effectiveness* * When used as directed	99%	99%	99%
Dosing Frequency	Monthly^†	Daily	Weekly
Other Considerations	Prescription required Doesn’t need to be fitted by a clinician Can be inserted and removed at home Easy to use	Prescription required Easy to use	Prescription required Easy to use

^† In a given 1-month period, NuvaRing^® must be inserted into your vagina, removed after 3 weeks, and a new ring must be inserted no more than 7 days later.

Switching from a combined hormonal contraceptive pill (containing both progestin and estrogen)

Switch from your previous combined hormonal contraceptive pill on any day, but at the latest on the day following the usual hormone-free interval, by inserting NuvaRing^®. If you have been using your hormonal contraceptive method consistently and correctly, no extra birth control method should be needed.

Switching from a combined hormonal contraceptive patch (containing both progestin and estrogen)

Switch from your combined hormonal contraceptive patch on any day, but at the latest on the day following the usual hormone-free interval, by inserting NuvaRing^®. If you have been using your hormonal contraceptive method consistently and correctly, no extra birth control method should be needed.

Print this information so you can discuss it with your doctor.

Prescription NuvaRing^® is a flexible vaginal ring approved for the prevention of pregnancy in women.

For additional important information, please see the FULL PRODUCT INFORMATION, INCLUDING BOXED WARNING.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION:

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. NuvaRing^® is not for women with a history of these conditions. The risk of getting blood clots may be greater with the type of progestin in NuvaRing than with some other progestins in certain low-dose birth control pills. 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 serious cardiovascular side effects, especially in women over 35; women who use combination hormonal contraceptives, including NuvaRing^®, are strongly advised not to smoke
NuvaRing^® is not for women with certain cancers or those who may be pregnant.
NuvaRing^® does not protect against HIV infection and other sexually transmitted diseases
The most common side effects reported by NuvaRing^® users are: vaginal infections and irritation, vaginal secretion, headache, weight gain, and nausea

You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch or call 1-800-FDA-1088.

Learn more about NuvaRing^®: 1-877-NUVARING

This site is intended for U.S. residents.