Dear NuvaUser18,

NuvaRing (the ring) is a combined-hormone method of birth control. It releases estrogen and progestin like the hormones a woman's body makes to protect against pregnancy for one month. A woman inserts the ring 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.

If you haven't been on the pill, patch, or ring in the last month, start using the ring on or before Day five of your menstrual cycle. (Day one is the first day of bleeding.) Pregnancy protection will begin seven later. In the meantime, use a latex or female condom to reduce the risk of pregnancy.

Keep in mind that 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.