Planned Parenthood

Someone asked us:

Hi guys! Thanks for fighting the good fight. Question: are there any side effects of the nuvaring that I should keep an eye out for? I read online that they cause pulmonary blood clots. What do you guys think? Is it safe?

The birth control ring — NuvaRing — is a safe and effective way to prevent pregnancy. Most people can use hormonal methods of birth control, like the ring, safely. However, all medications have some risks, and certain conditions can increase the risk of serious side effects.

All hormonal birth control contains progestin. But some also contain estrogen (combination pills, the patch, and the ring). Hormonal birth control that contains estrogen can cause blood clots, but the risk is really low. It’s actually more likely for pregnancy to cause blood clots (though still not very likely).

If you’re a smoker over age 35, your risk for blood clots while using hormonal birth control with estrogen is higher, so tell your nurse or doctor if you smoke.  Possible dangerous risks increase if you have certain health conditions (like having high blood pressure, migraine with aura, or certain blood clotting disorders).

Your doctor or nurse (like the staff at your local Planned Parenthood health center) will talk you through all the potential risks and benefits of any birth control method you’re interested in using. They’ll work with you to make sure that your birth control pairs well with your medical history and lifestyle.

Learn more about the ring and it’s possible side effects. 

-Chelsea @ Planned Parenthood