NuvaRing Disadvantages and Side Effects
By pocketpills: March 3, 2020
NuvaRing Disadvantages and Side Effects
Medical Side Effects
NuvaRing has some potential side effects, ranging from bothersome to severe.
Mild side effects: Some of the milder side effects of the ring include the following:
- Spotting/breakthrough bleeding between periods
- Nausea
- Tender/sore breasts
- Weight gain
- Vaginal irritation
- Increased vaginal discharge
- Headaches
- Changes in mood
The good news is that these side effects will generally go away on their own within a few months. If these side effects continue after a few months or become worrisome, please speak to your doctor or medical professional.
Serious side effects: Use of the NuvaRing may result in some serious side effects. These side effects include:
- Heart attack
- Stroke
- Blood clots
- Cancer
Because of these serious side effects, the NuvaRing is not recommended for women who have:
- High blood pressure
- Liver disease
- A history of smoking and are 35 years of age or older
- Diabetes
- Vascular issues
- Breast cancer
- History of blood clots
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Does Not Protect Against Sexually Transmitted Diseases
When used correctly, the NuvaRing is 99% effective in preventing pregnancy. While the ring is beneficial when it comes to preventing pregnancy, it cannot protect against sexually transmitted diseases. If you are a user of the NuvaRing and not currently in a monogamous relationship, it is advisable to use a barrier method like a condom when having sexual intercourse.
Insertion Issues
Learning to insert and remove the ring properly can be challenging at first. Inserting and removing the ring may be uncomfortable and may result in some vaginal irritation. Some newer users may also be fearful that the ring will get lost once it has been put in. Fortunately, the ring cannot get lost, as the cervix will block the ring from going any further into the body.
The manufacturers of the NuvaRing have reported instances where people have inserted the ring into their bladder in error. If you cannot locate your NuvaRing after insertion and experience discomfort, reach out to your medical professional as soon as possible.
Is the IUD insertion process painful? – Find out here
The Ring May Fall Out
Another disadvantage of the ring is that it may fall out in error. If the ring falls out accidentally within 2 weeks of insertion, it is essential that it be reinserted within 3 hours. Prior to reinserting the ring, it should be rinsed with cold or warm (not hot) water.
If the ring cannot be put back in within 3 hours, it should be reinserted as soon as possible. Another method of birth control (i.e. condoms) should be used for the next 7 days to prevent pregnancy. If the ring comes out during the third week of use, it should be thrown away. A new ring can be put in right away if you wish. An alternative method of birth control should be used in this case, too.
Forgetting to Change Your Ring
Unlike long-term contraceptive methods like intrauterine devices (IUDs), it is up to the user of the ring to remember to replace it on schedule. Failure to do so may result in an unexpected pregnancy. Setting a recurring reminder on your cell phone may help ensure that this monthly task is not overlooked.
NuvaRing is an effective method of birth control that is used by many women without issue. However, birth control is not a one-size-fits-all matter. Speak to your doctor or medical professional to see which method of birth control is most suitable for you. Once you have spoken to your medical professional and have received a prescription, reach out to PocketPills and let us help you ensure that you always have your chosen method of birth control on hand.
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