NuvaRing Background



NuvaRing is a form of contraceptive. It is a flexible, transparent ring that is approximately two inches in diameter that is inserted into the vagina. NuvaRing's position in the vagina is not critical for its function. NuvaRing is left in the vagina for three weeks and then removed. After one week, during which time withdrawal bleeding usually occurs, a new NuvaRing is inserted for another three-weeks.

NuvaRing is produced by Organon USA, a pharmaceutical company owned by the multi-national conglomerate Akzo Nobel. Akzo Nobel is headquartered in the Netherlands, where NuvaRing was first approved in February 2001. The drug was approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on October 3, 2001.

How NuvaRing Works

NuvaRing has two types of hormones ? an estrogen and a progestin. It is a third generation birth control that uses a different form of progestin than older contraceptives called desogestrel. The hormones are released into the bloodstream through the vaginal walls, which absorb the hormones and place them into the bloodstream. These hormones are designed to prevent the ovaries from producing mature eggs. Further, the lining of the uterus becomes thinner which impedes implantation of a fertilized egg.

NuvaRing Effectiveness

In three clinical trials of 13 cycles of NuvaRing use, the pregnancy rates were between one and two women out of 100. The manufacturer of NuvaRing claims it is highly effective ?when used as directed.? There are side effects, however, and some are serious.

Studies concluded as early as 1995 that the third generation contraceptives containing desogestrel had almost double the risk of venous thrombosis (blood clots) than second generation oral contraceptives. The FDA confirmed this risk in 1995 stating that ?new studies indicated that a two-fold increase in the risk of venous blood clots associated with products containing desogestrel.? There currently have been no non-industry sponsored studies comparing the benefits of third generation contraceptives such as NuvaRing to second generation ones.

NuvaRing's Side Effects

Common side effects reported by NuvaRing users are vaginal infections and irritation, vaginal secretion, headache, weight gain, and nausea. More serious side effects include a higher risk of venous thrombosis (blood clots), which could lead to a stroke or heart attack.

Studies have shown a link between desogestrel and a higher risk of blood clots and stroke. NuvaRing has been associated with blood clots including pulmonary embolism and deep vein thrombosis, as well as stroke and heart attack.

NuvaRing Lawsuits

Individuals, couples, and families are filing lawsuits on their own for serious problems caused by NuvaRing. There currently is no class action lawsuit against the manufacturer of NuvaRing for problems associated with NuvaRing's use. However, the number of these lawsuits is increasing and someday there may be a class action. If you or a loved one has suffered NuvaRing side effects including blood clots, stroke, or heart attack, you may be able to file a NuvaRing lawsuit.