Vaginal ring (NuvaRing)

The NuvaRing® is a soft plastic ring that contains the female hormones oestrogen and progestogen. It is inserted inside the vagina to protect against pregnancy. The NuvaRing® doesn't prevent you from getting a sexually transmitted infection (STI). It's important to use condoms to prevent STIs.

NuvaRing® works by wearing it for 3 out of 4 weeks of the month. Once inside, the ring slowly releases hormones. The walls of the vagina absorb the hormones and ovulation (the release of an egg from the ovary) is prevented. NuvaRing® is similar to the contraceptive pill – for 3 weeks a female is getting the hormones and for 1 week her body is resting.

If used properly, NuvaRing® is around 99% effective in preventing pregnancy.

You can get NuvaRing® from your doctor or sexual health clinic.