Birth Control Ring

Overview

The birth control ring (brand names: Annovera and NuvaRing) is a small, bendable plastic ring inserted into the vagina. It stays in place for three weeks at a time, then it is taken out for the fourth week. The main way the ring works is by giving off hormones that prevent ovaries from releasing eggs.

There are two types of birth control rings, one that is used over and over for up to a year (Annovera) and one type that is replaced monthly (NuvaRing or its generic versions).

Quick Facts

Very effective if used correctly. Easy to use and works like the pill, but someone doesn’t have to worry about it every day.

Effectiveness

The ring is very effective the way most people use it.
Perfect use: 97 to over 99% effective
Typical use: 93% effective
What are perfect use and typical use?

Hormones

The ring contains two different kinds of hormones, estrogen and progestin.

Side effects

Most common—but usually temporary—side effects are irregular bleeding, headaches, sore breasts, and nausea.

Cost

Anywhere from $0 (with insurance) to $200 a month.

STI protection

The ring doesn’t protect against STIs.

Ongoing effort

Ring in. Wait 3 weeks. Ring out. Wait 1 week. Repeat. Get a new ring every month.

Types of birth control rings - Yearly birth control ring (Annovera)

Annovera is a birth control ring that can be used for up to a year. It is placed inside the vagina, left there for three weeks, then taken out and left out for one week, which is usually when a woman has a withdrawal bleed (similar to a period). During this time, store it in its own little case. Then she puts it back in for the next cycle.

Types of birth control rings - Monthly birth control ring (NuvaRing)

The NuvaRing is a birth control ring that is replaced monthly. Just like with Annovera, a woman puts it inside the vagina, leaves it there for three weeks, then takes it out and doesn’t put a new one in for one week, which is usually when they’ll have a withdrawal bleed (similar to a period). At the end of that week, they insert a new ring.