Dear Paradise09,

Yes, the ring (NuvaRing) is a safe and effective birth control method for teens. When used correctly, it's up to 99.7 percent effective against pregnancy.

The ring is a soft and flexible. A woman inserts it deep inside her vagina. A new ring is inserted once and left in place for three out of four weeks. At the beginning of the fourth week, it is removed and menstruation occurs.

Like the pill and the patch, the ring is a combined-hormone method of birth control. It releases synthetic estrogen and progestin to protect against pregnancy for one month.

Keep in mind the ring and other hormonal birth control methods don't offer any protection against sexually transmitted infections. Using a latex or female condom along with the ring reduces the risk of infection.

The ring must be prescribed by a health care provider. To make an appointment at a Planned Parenthood health center near you, call 1-800-230-PLAN.

For more information on the ring, including a list of advantages and disadvantages and how to insert the ring, check out Facts About Birth Control — The Ring.

Hope this information helps!

Take care,

teenwire.com^® Editors

This column is for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have a medical problem, please call toll-free 1-800-230-PLAN for an appointment with the Planned Parenthood health center nearest you.