NuvaRing Side Effects: What to Expect & Potential Risks

NuvaRing is a birth control device placed inside the vagina that releases hormones to halt ovulation. NuvaRing side effects are similar to oral contraceptive side effects. FDA research indicates that up to 14 percent of women using NuvaRing experience side effects, but only 2.5 percent are severe enough to stop usage.

Common Side Effects

• According to the NuvaRing website, common NuvaRing side effects include breakthrough bleeding, breast tenderness, dizziness, headaches, nausea, nervousness, stomach cramps and weight changes. These are usually temporary.

Severe Side Effects

• Severe NuvaRing side effects include chest pain, jaundice, migraines, numbness, rash, swelling and vision loss. Stop usage and seek medical attention if you experience these symptoms while using NuvaRing.

Amenorrhea

• Some women do not ovulate or menstruate for six months or longer after stopping usage of NuvaRing. If menstruation does not restart after six months, amenorrhea may be treated with estrogen blockers.

Contraindications

• You should not use NuvaRing if you have a history of blood clots, breast cancer, diabetes, heart attack, high blood pressure, jaundice, liver tumor or toxic shock syndrome.

Warning

• The risk of NuvaRing side effects is increased in women who are obese, over 35 or smokers.