How Safe Is the Nuvaring?
The NuvaRing is a popular choice for medical birth control among women. Because NuvaRing allows for less chance of user error, it is considered to be as reliable as the pill when used perfectly. Like all medicines, however, it doesn't present risks among the benefits.
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How Does NuvaRing Work?
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NuvaRing is a flexible rubber-like ring that is inserted into the vagina once per month. It is kept in place for three weeks and removed for the fourth week, when the woman will experience her monthly period. NuvaRing is then reinserted and the cycle is repeated as long as the woman wishes to remain using NuvaRing as a contraceptive.
The NuvaRing contains hormones that are slowly released into your bloodstream over the course of three weeks.The walls of the vagina absorb these hormones, which prevent pregnancy. The hormones used in NuvaRing, which are synthetic, are etonogestral and ethinyl estradiol. These hormones mimic pregnancy within the body and therefore prevent ovulation, thus preventing pregnancy in 99 percent of users.
Safety
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NuvaRing has been determined to be safe and effective by the FDA.
However, some studies show that NuvaRing use increases the risk of cardiovascular problems. Among the most common of these is a condition known as DVT---deep vein thrombosis. DVT is a condition in which blood clots form within the cardiovascular system, usually in the legs. These clots can travel with blood flow into the brain, lungs or heart and can have catastrophic consequences.
Studies done by the National Institute for Health suggest that the hormones in NuvaRing are at fault for increasing this risk.
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Common Side Effects
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The most common side effects associated with NuvaRing usage are infections and irritation of the vagina, an increase in vaginal secretions, headaches, nausea and weight gain.
These side effects are caused by the hormones in NuvaRing. Most of these symptoms will subside as your body becomes used to the medicine. Most women don't find these side effects to be bothersome enough to discontinue the use of NuvaRing.
If you experience these side effects while on NuvaRing and they become extremely bothersome or increase in severity, consult your doctor.
Hormonal Birth Control
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The hormones in all forms of chemical birth control pose risks for certain side effects and certain health risks. These are very rare but do occur in some users.
These include vomiting, appetite changes, cramping and bloating, tenderness of the breasts, spotting, menstrual changes such as lighter or heavier periods, temporary infertility after stopping hormonal birth control treatment, edema, mood swings, skin changes, nervousness, dizziness or intolerance to contact lenses.
These side effects occur in users of all kinds of hormonal birth control methods, including NuvaRing.
Serious Risks and Side Effects
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There are some serious risks that can be exacerbated by the use of NuvaRing, as well as all forms of hormonal birth control. These risks include blood clots, heart attacks, stroke, liver dysfunction, gallbladder dysfunction, toxic shock syndrome and depression.
These risks are low, but they do exist. It is important for women who are on NuvaRing not to smoke, as smoking increases the risk for blood clots, strokes and heart attacks.
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