NuvaRing online birth control prescription available
NuvaRing is a prescription birth control used for contraception as well as to treat the symptoms of endometrial hyperplasia, and secondary amenorrhea (absence of a period). Get a same-day prescription or refill for NuvaRing* from a caring, online doctor.
Book an appointment
Releases low estrogen and progestin
Available only by prescription
Help prevents pregnancy
*Prescriptions are provided at the doctor’s discretion. Learn more about our controlled substances policy and how you can save up to 80% with our prescription discount card.
About NuvaRing birth control
NuvaRing (etonogestrel ethinyl estradiol) is a form of hormonal birth control. It's a small, flexible, plastic ring that inserts into the vagina to prevent pregnancy. It releases a continuous low dose of estrogen and progestin, which helps stop ovulation.
Nuvaring is available only by prescription. It’s always important to follow the specific instructions on your prescription.
If you're prescribed NuvaRing, follow your doctor's instructions unless your doctor specifically tells you to remove the ring. If you remove Nuvarung, it will not be effective in preventing pregnancy.
NuvaRing uses
NuvaRing is FDA-approved to prevent pregnancy, but your healthcare provider may also prescribe it off-label for other reasons. Ask your online doctor or pharmacist if you have questions about why a medication is prescribed.
Pregnancy prevention
NuvaRing is FDA-approved for pregnancy prevention. NuvaRing releases a continuous dose of estrogen and progestin into the bloodstream, which helps prevent pregnancy. Using the vaginal ring does not prevent you or your partner from contracting sexually transmitted diseases or sexually transmitted infections.
Your doctor may prescribe NuvaRing and other hormonal contraceptives to regulate your menstrual cycle.
NuvaRing side effects
The side effects associated with the vaginal ring are typically mild. Individuals using NuvaRing report various side effects, and side effects of combination hormonal contraceptives may vary from patient to patient.
The side effects of NuvaRing may include:
Reduced sexual desire or decreased libido
Vaginal discomfort
Breast tenderness
Mood changes
Unexplained vaginal bleeding or spotting
Cramping
Vaginal discharge
Thicker cervical mucus
Other side effects, which are less common but are considered severe, could include:Blood clots
Liver problems
Gallbladder problems
Breast cancer
Please call your doctor immediately if you notice any adverse reactions or develop any other new or concerning symptoms.
How to use NuvaRing (etonogestrel, ethinyl estradiol vaginal ring)
Your doctor or pharmacist will provide instructions on how to use your NuvaRing prescription. Be sure to read your prescription label and follow the instructions. Call your doctor or pharmacy if you have any questions.
Typically, the vaginal ring is used in a four-week cycle. You'll insert a new ring during the first week and keep it in place for three weeks (21 days). You should check that your vaginal ring stays in place regularly.
After three weeks, remove the vaginal ring for one week. During the ring-free week, you should get your period.
One week after removing the vaginal ring, insert a new ring. You should insert the vaginal ring even if you're still menstruating. It is recommended to insert and remove the NuvaRing simultaneously on the same day of the week.
What to avoid while using NuvaRing (interactions)
NuvaRing has several drug interactions. Don’t change what you take without checking with your doctor or pharmacist. That includes other medications, supplements, and over-the-counter drugs.
Possible drug interactions with NuvaRing include:
Adderall
Ibuprofen
Lamictal (lamotrigine)
Omeprazole
Sertraline
Topiramate
Trazodone
Vitamin B12 (cyanocobalamin)
Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol)
Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine)
Xanax (alprazolam)
Zyrtec (cetirizine)
Certain supplements, including St. John's Wort, can reduce the effectiveness of NuvaRing. It's safe to drink alcohol while using the vaginal ring.
Medication alternatives to NuvaRing
If your healthcare provider prefers to put you on another treatment, they may suggest another progestin or birth control in another drug class. Here are some common doctor-recommended alternatives:
Pregnancy prevention
Mirena (levonorgestrel)
Lo Loestrin Fe Desogen (desogestrel/ethinyl estradiol)Lessina (ethinylestradiol/levonorgestrel)
Nordette (ethinylestradiol/levonorgestrel)
Velivet (desogestrel/ethinyl estradiol)
NuvaRing prescription FAQs
How much does NuvaRing cost?
NuvaRing costs anywhere from $0 to $200 without insurance depending on your pharmacy. Fortunately, the vaginal ring is free with most health insurance plans and government programs.
How can I refill my NuvaRing prescription?
Book a virtual appointment with a board-certified PlushCare doctor to refill your Nuvaring prescription. After reviewing your medical history, your doctor can send an electronic prescription to your local pharmacy.
Who should not take NuvaRing?
You should not use NuvaRing if you:
Smoke cigarettes and are over 35 years old.
Have a history of blood clots, stroke, or heart attack.
Have diabetes with kidney, eye, nerve, or blood vessel damage.
Have severe migraine headaches with aura.
Experience unexplained vaginal bleeding patterns.
Are pregnant or may become pregnant.
Have a history of breast cancer.
How do I insert and remove the NuvaRing?
To insert NuvaRing :
Wash and dry your hands.
Hold the ring between your thumb and index finger, pressing the sides of the ring together.
Lie down, squat, or stand up on one leg and carefully push the ring inside the vagina.
Remember: The vaginal ring cannot go too far into your vagina, as it can't pass the cervix.
To remove NuvaRing, hook your index finger under the forward rim and pull it out.What are the possible risks and side effects of NuvaRing?
The side effects of hormonal birth control are typically mild. Common side effects include:
Vagina irritation or discomfort
Weight gain
Headaches
Mood changes
Vaginal discharge
Breast tenderness
Thick cervical mucus
How effective is the NuvaRing?
When used as prescribed, NuvaRing is 99% effective in preventing pregnancy.
When can I start using NuvaRing?
You can start using NuvaRing at any point during your menstrual cycle. If you begin NuvaRing during the first five days of your period, it'll work immediately. Starting on any other day of your menstrual cycle will take seven days to prevent pregnancy.
What does NuvaRing feel like when it is inserted?
When inserted correctly, you shouldn't be able to feel NuvaRing. If you experience any vaginal irritation, try pushing NuvaRing up higher.
Will my partner or I feel NuvaRing during sexual intercourse?
Your partner may feel NuvaRing during sexual intercourse. However, NuvaRing is unlikely to affect you or your partner's ability to feel pleasure during penetrative sex.
Does NuvaRing protect against sexually transmitted diseases (STDs)?
No, NuvaRing does not protect against sexually transmitted diseases or sexually transmitted infections, including human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Barrier methods, such as condoms or the cervical cap, can lower your risk of pregnancy while preventing STDs and STIs.
Do hormonal birth control methods cause cancer?
Hormonal contraceptives may cause an increased risk of breast cancer and cervical cancer. The risks of endometrial, ovarian, and colorectal cancers are lower in women who use hormonal birth control.
3 simple steps to request your NuvaRing prescription online
Step 1
Book a NuvaRing prescription request appointment.
You can book a same day appointment from anywhere.
Step 2
Talk to your medical provider regarding your NuvaRing prescription.
You can visit a doctor on your smartphone or computer.
Step 3
Pick up your NuvaRing prescription.
We can send prescriptions to any local pharmacy.
NuvaRing prescription pricing details
How pricing works
To get a new or refill on your NuvaRing prescription, join our monthly membership and get discounted visits.
Paying with insurance
Membership
$16.99/month
First month free
Visits
Copay
30 days of free membership
Same-day appointments 7 days a week
Unlimited messages with your Care Team
Prescription discount card to save up to 80%
Exclusive discounts on lab tests
Free memberships for your family
Cancel anytime
Visit price with insurance
Often the same as an office visit. Most patients with in-network insurance pay $30 or less!
- We accept these insurance plans and many more:
Paying without insurance
Membership
$16.99/month
First month free
Visits
$129
30 days of free membership
Same-day appointments 7 days a week
Unlimited messages with your Care Team
Prescription discount card to save up to 80%
Exclusive discounts on lab tests
Free memberships for your family
Cancel anytime
Visit price without insurance
Initial visits are $129.
If we're unable to treat you, we'll provide a full refund.
Sources:
PlushCare is dedicated to providing you with accurate and trustworthy health information
National Library of Medicine. Hormonal Contraception and Breast Cancer Risk. Accessed on August 31, 2022. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6124967/
National Library of Medicine. Review of the combined contraceptive vaginal ring, NuvaRing®. Accessed on August 31, 2022. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2504064/
Planned Parenthood. Birth Control Ring. Accessed on August 31, 2022. https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/birth-control/birth-control-vaginal-ring-nuvaring#:~:text=Nope.,you%20from%20sexually%20transmitted%20infections.
PlushCare content is reviewed by MDs, PhDs, NPs, nutritionists, and other healthcare professionals. Learn more about our editorial standards and meet the medical team. The PlushCare site or any linked materials are not intended and should not be construed as medical advice, nor is the information a substitute for professional medical expertise or treatment.