Ring Contraceptive Uses New "Third Generation" Hormones
As with all birth control methods, there are several things that may lessen Nuvaring effectiveness. The most common potential threats to the contraceptive’s successful prevention of pregnancy are improper use and the negative effect of other medications.
NuvaRing is a flexible vaginal ring which is inserted and left in place for a period of three weeks. During that time, this combined hormonal contraceptive releases two hormones (estrogen and a synthetic for a progestin) which are absorbed into the vaginal wall and secreted into the bloodstream. As the body perceives elevated levels of these hormones, it reacts in three ways which discourage pregnancy. The release of eggs from the ovaries is suppressed, and cervical mucous is thickened, inhibiting the swimming of sperm. Additionally, the lining of the uterus is thickened, making it less receptive to the implantation of a fertilized egg.
After the third week, the ring is removed for a period of one week, in which time the user will experience the bleeding associated with a regular menstrual cycle.
Organon, the manufacturer of the Nuva Ring, reports an effectiveness rate of more than 99% with proper use. With typical use, Nuvaring effectiveness rates drop to around 92%. Common errors in use include not leaving the ring in the vagina for three weeks in a row, or leaving the ring in the vagina for more than three weeks. A woman may also be at greater risk of pregnancy if the ring slides out and is not replaced within three hours, or if the unopened NuvaRing package is exposed to prolonged high temperatures or direct sunlight.
As with many oral contraceptives, Nuvaring effectiveness may also be compromised by other medications taken simultaneously. Antibiotics, in particular, are noted for lessening the effectiveness of hormonal contraceptives. A wide variety of other drugs can have a detrimental impact on Nuvaring effectiveness, including but not limited to: certain anti-seizure medications, some antidepressants or anxiety medications, certain oral anti-fungal medications, select diabetes medications and natural supplements. Users should discuss all other medications (both prescription and over-the-counter) taken with their physician.
While Nuvaring effectiveness is of great concern to women who choose it as a birth control method, the potential side effects of the contraceptive are also to be considered. Those side effects vary widely in seriousness and some can cause severe health complications, including death.
The more common NuvaRing side effects include breast tenderness, weight gain, vaginal dryness, unusual vaginal secretions, vaginal infection, nausea, sleepiness, headaches and rash. Of greater concern are the reported incidences of depression, hair loss, irregular bleeding, migraine headaches, abdominal pain and fluid retention.
The most serious—and potentially fatal—side effects linked to use of the
NuvaRing are blood clots, deep vein thrombosis (blood clot in the leg), pulmonary embolism (blood clot in the lung), heart attack, stroke, and an increased incidence of breast cancer. Warning signs of these serious complications include leg pain, sharp chest pain or heaviness, difficulty breathing, the coughing up of blood, or sudden changes in vision or speech. Women who experience these symptoms while using NuvaRing should seek emergency medical attention.
If you have further questions about Nuvaring effectiveness, side effects or the health consequences associated with the product, an NuvaRing attorney can help you. These legal specialists are experienced with the contraceptive and the injuries that can result from its use. Additionally, they can advise you with regard to the legal alternatives available to those who have medical bills and long-term care needs related to these injuries. Let Legal Tube help you find the right attorney for your needs.
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