Birth Control Ring Risks by:John Humphrey

What is NuvaRing?

What is NuvaRing?

The birth control ring (NuvaRing) is a relatively new form of hormone-based birth control. It is a flexible, transparent ring that is approximately two inches in diameter that is inserted into the vagina. The position of the NuvaRing is not important for its function. NuvaRing is left in the vagina for three weeks and then removed. After one week, during which time withdrawal bleeding usually occurs, a new NuvaRing is inserted for another three-week cycle. NuvaRing was approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on October 3, 2001.

How Does NuvaRing Work?

NuvaRing is a combination hormone contraceptive containing - an estrogen and a progestin. NuvaRing is a third generation birth control that uses a different form of progestin than older contraceptives called desogestrel. Those hormones are released into the bloodstream through contact with the vagina. The vaginal walls absorb the hormones and place them into the bloodstream. These hormones are designed to prevent the ovaries from producing mature eggs. In addition, the lining of the uterus becomes thinner which inhibits implantation of a fertilized egg.

Is NuvaRing Effective?

In three clinical trials of 13 cycles of NuvaRing use, the pregnancy rates were between one and two percent. The makers of NuvaRing claim it is highly effective "when used as directed." However, there are side effects, some of which are serious.

Studies of third generation contraceptives concluded as early as 1995 that the third generation contraceptives containing desogestrel had almost double the risk of venous thrombosis (blood clots) than second generation oral contraceptives. The FDA confirmed this risk in 1995 stating "new studies indicated that a two-fold increase in the risk of venous blood clots associated with products containing desogestrel." Currently, there also have been zero non-industry sponsored studies comparing the benefits of third generation contraceptives such as NuvaRing to second generation contraceptives.

What are NuvaRing's Side Effects?

According to the manufacturer of NuvaRing, common side effects reported by NuvaRing users are vaginal infections and irritation, vaginal secretion, headache, weight gain, and nausea. More serious side effects include a higher risk of venous thrombosis (blood clots).

Studies have shown the association between desogestrel and an increased risk of blood clots and stroke. Similar to other hormone-based birth control, NuvaRing has been linked to blood clots including pulmonary embolism and deep vein thrombosis, as well as stroke and heart attack.

Is There a Class Action Lawsuit Against NuvaRing?

There currently is no class action lawsuit against the manufacturer of NuvaRing for problems associated with the use of Nuvaring. Individuals, couples, and families are filing lawsuits on their own for serious problems caused by NuvaRing. The number of these lawsuits is increasing and cases have been consolidated into what is referred to as multi-district litigation. If you or a loved one has suffered NuvaRing side effects such as stroke, blood clot, or heart attack, you may be able to file a NuvaRing lawsuit.

About the author

John Humphrey is author of this article on Nuvaring side effects.

Find more information about Nuvaring lawsuit here.

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