How does NuvaRing work?

NuvaRing works by releasing a low dosage of the hormones progestin (etonogestral) and estrogen during the three-week period it is inside the vagina. These arethe same hormones found in so-called “third generation” birth control pills.The FDA has found that third generation contraceptives can double a woman’s risk of blood clots as compared with other contraceptives.

NuvaRing releases a continuous dose of hormones into the body, unlike the fluctuating doses that occur with birth control pills. And the hormones are released directly into the bloodstream instead of through the stomach, as with pills.