Most women choose to wear the ring for 3 weeks, then take a 1-week break. Exactly 1 week after the day of removal, insert a new ring. Make a note of the day and time you removed it - try to insert the new one at the same time, on the same day, one week later.

To insert the ring, press the opposite sides together, making an oval. Push the ring into the vagina until it feels comfortable. Remove the ring by hooking a finger under the ring and pulling it out.

Nuvaring can also be taken as follows:
Extended use: 1 ring weekly for 9 weeks then no pills for the next 4 or 7 days.
Continuous use: 1 ring weekly with no break.

NuvaRing is a type of contraceptive vaginal ring. The vaginal ring is a small, flexible ring that is inserted into the vagina for 3 weeks, followed by a 1-week break. In this time it will provide a slow, controlled release of hormones. It does not need to stay in a particular position (as long as it remains in the vagina), and it should allow you to use tampons and have sex without complication.

NuvaRing is approximately 99% effective.

Its effectiveness is dependent upon correct usage, and on your NuvaRing staying in place. This is one of the main concerns of its users, and as such women should always be aware of its positioning, and check regularly that it has remained in place.

Most women experience no side effects. However, irritation of the skin, discharge, mood swings, irregular bleeding, and breast discomfort have been reported. Rarely, some women develop blood clots. This contraceptive carries a slightly higher risk of blood clots than others. If you have any concerns, send us a message via your Patient Record.

For full information on side effects and correct use, see the patient information leaflet. If any side effects concern you, contact us via your Patient Record.

If the ring is out for more than 3hrs in the 1st week of use – you may not be protected from pregnancy. Wash the ring and put it back in as soon as you can, and leave it in place for at least 7 days without interruption.

If it was out for more than 48hrs in the first week – use extra precautions such as condoms for seven days. See your doctor or nurse if you have had sex without a condom in the previous week. You may also need emergency contraception.

If the ring has been out for more than 3hrs in the 2nd or 3rd week, throw the ring away and either put in a new ring and start a new three-week cycle; or if the ring had been in place continuously for the previous 7 days, have a ring-free week and put in a new ring 7 days after it came out.

If it was out for more than 48 hours in the second of third week, use extra precautions such as condoms for 7 days.

If you're in doubt, use condoms and send us a message via your Patient Record or check with your GP.

If you can’t take the NuvaRing out, you have any bleeding or pain, please see your GP or nurse as soon as possible. 

If your baby is under 6 weeks and you’re breastfeeding, it’s not advised to use the vaginal ring as it can sometimes reduce the flow of breastmilk.