Latest COVID-19 guidance
What is it?
The vaginal ring (NuvaRing) is a small soft, plastic ring that you place inside your vagina.
It releases a continuous dose of the hormones oestrogen and progestogen into the bloodstream to prevent pregnancy. If used correctly, the vaginal ring is more than 99% effective.
One ring provides contraception for a month, so you don't have to think about it every day.
To compare contraception methods and what will work best for you, use the Contraception Choices Tool.
The vaginal ring is a good option for many people, but may not be suitable for those who:
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Are overweight
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are 35 or older and smoke, or stopped smoking in the past year
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Have had breast cancer in the last 5 years
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Have diabetes with complications
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have migraine with aura (warning symptoms)
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Have a history of blood clotting
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have had heart or circulatory problems, including high blood pressure
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Can't hold the ring in your vagina
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Take medications that interact with the ring
Discuss with your GP or one of our clinicians to decide whether the vaginal ring is the best option for you based on your medical history.
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It doesn’t interrupt sex and it’s easy to put in and remove. Once you put it in, you don’t have to remove it for a 3 weeks.
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It may help with PMS symptoms
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It does not have long-term effects on your fertility
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It may reduce the risk of cancer of the ovary, uterus and colon
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You may not feel comfortable inserting or removing it from your vagina
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you need to remember to change it and put in a new one – if you find it difficult to remember, it may be best to consider a long-acting method of birth control such as an IUD or contraceptive implant
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It may cause side effects such as headaches, nausea and mood changes; however, these tend to be temporary
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It doesn’t protect you against STI’s
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some medicines can make the ring less effective
Make an appointment at one of our clinics to speak with a nurse or clinician to talk through your options and best suitable method of contraception for you.
