NuvaRing

The biggest benefit of the NuvaRing is perhaps the fact that it offers the same level of protection as the pill but only needs to be used once a month. Another is the fact that it doesn't need to be digested to work; the NuvaRing remains effective if you're sick or suffer from diarrhoea, unlike oral contraceptives.

The NuvaRing can make periods shorter and lighter, improve acne and alleviate menstrual cramps. It also offers some protection from developing pelvic inflammatory disease, ovarian cysts or uterine and ovarian cancers.

This vaginal ring contains a lower dosage of oestrogen than many pills, which means you're less likely to develop oestrogen-related side effects.

Each NuvaRing contains oestrogen and progestogen and works in the same way as combined pills such as Yasmin or Dianette. The difference is that the hormones are delivered by a ring placed inside the vagina, rather than orally with a pill.

This vaginal ring releases an artificial oestrogen called ethinylestradiol and an artificial progestogen called etonogestrel which thickens the cervical mucous, stops the womb lining from thickening and prevents the ovaries from releasing an egg. These three actions make it almost impossible for you to conceive.

Your suitability for using the NuvaRing is reviewed on a case by case basis, but if you have an existing or historic case of heart attacks, a stroke or blood clots; severe high blood pressure; liver tumours; or heart valve or rhythm disorders, you may not be able to use this contraceptive.

Some medications can speed up the breakdown of hormones and stop the NuvaRing from working properly. This contraceptive can also increase the blood levels of certain medications, boosting the risk of developing side effects. This is why you should always mention if you're taking any medication during your consultation.

You need to insert a NuvaRing once a month. This is easy to do; simply squeeze the vaginal ring between your thumb and index finger and insert it into your vagina. It doesn't matter which position it's in, as long as it's comfortable. You can remove and reinsert the ring until it feels right.

You should remove the ring after three weeks. Taking it out is just as easy as inserting it. All you need to do is hook your finger under the rim of the vaginal ring, or hold it between your index and middle finger, and pull it out gently.

During the week without the ring, you'll still be protected from pregnancy. You will probably experience a withdrawal bleed, which is just your body's way of removing your womb lining naturally.

The dosage of oestrogen is reduced with the NuvaRing, which means you're less likely to develop oestrogen-related side effects like water retention and headaches.

The NuvaRing may cause abdominal pain, vaginal discomfort, genital itching, reduced libido and weight gain. It can also cause some uncommon side effects which include disturbed vision, dizziness, a swollen abdomen, mood changes or swings, difficulty or pain when urinating, pain or bleeding during intercourse, back pain and muscle spasms.

If you want a reliable contraceptive that you don't have to think about every day, the NuvaRing may be perfect for you. We ask every patient to complete a consultation which allows one of our doctors to assess if it's safe for you to use this vaginal ring. Once our doctor writes you a prescription, you can buy the NuvaRing online from Onlineclinic.co.uk, and we'll send it to you via our free next-day delivery service.