NuvaRing

The NuvaRing birth control contraceptive provides convenient, almost 100% effective contraceptive cover. The main advantage of NuvaRing compared to other forms of contraception, is that it is only inserted once a month, meaning you don't have to remember to take a pill every day. Another benefit of this treatment is the fact that the synthetic hormones aren't absorbed into the bloodstream internally. This means, if you're prone to side effects associated with ingested tablets, the NuvaRing will not affect you.

The NuvaRing, once inserted, can remain in place for a month before needing to change and you will not be able to feel the ring. This means it seldom creates any difficulties with sexual intercourse and you can forget about it knowing you're fully protected.

The NuvaRing is the only vagina ring available to order in the UK and is available to buy at euroClinix in a three-month supply.

The contraceptive hormones in the NuvaRing are gradually released into your system on a daily basis, which is why the NuvaRing is known as a low-dose hormonal contraceptive.

The vaginal ring works in the same way as other hormonal contraceptives. During your cycle the hormones prevent ovulation, which means that your body doesn't release an egg. In addition to this, this contraceptive prevents the womb lining from thickening so that in the highly unlikely event an egg does get released, it can't embed itself in the womb lining.

This small ring releases two female sex hormones – progestogen and oestrogen– continually into your bloodstream. These are the same hormones that are in the contraceptive pill and synthetic versions of the hormones that are released naturally in a woman's body. Therefore, the ring is much like a vaginal version of the pill.

The ring itself is constructed of plastic. It's transparent and is approximately 54 millimetres, which equates to around 2.1 inches, across. It roughly has the same diameter measurements as a small jam-jar lid. One size is designed to fit all.

The active ingredients in the NuvaRing are ethinylestradiol and etonogestrel, oestrogen and progestogen respectively.

If you insert the NuvaRing contraceptive on the first day of your period, you will receive immediate cover. You can also insert it between day two and five of your period, but then you'll have to wait seven days for it to take effect. If you have sex during this time, it is important to use additional barrier contraception (i.e. condoms) or refrain from sex until the NuvaRing becomes fully effective. If you've used a combined contraceptive during the last month, just start using the treatment on the first day of your seven pill-free days.

• To use the medication, wash your hands before taking it out of its packet
• Then compress it and get into a comfortable position
• Push the ring into the vagina with one finger until it feels comfortable
• You can leave each vaginal ring in for three weeks
• After three weeks, the ring can be removed by hooking it with your index finger and pulling it out
• Wait seven days before inserting the new ring at exactly the same time you took it out a week before

Conventionally, it was believed that antibiotics might decrease the efficacy of the pill and other hormonal contraceptives. However, there is now substantial doubt as to whether commonplace, everyday antibiotics can actually do this. Nonetheless, in 2011 the manufacturers' guidelines still say that 'contraceptive failures have been reported with antibiotics, such as penicillin and tetracyclines'. Therefore, if you use penicillin or any alternative antibiotic, inform the doctor or your healthcare provider about whether you need to use extra contraceptive precautions for the remainder of the vaginal ring time.

There is just one dose of the NuvaRing and this has been clinically proven to be highly effective at preventing pregnancy. Every ring contains 120mcg of ethinylestradiol and 15mcg of etonogestrel.

If you are a woman between the ages of 18 and 40 you should be able to use this treatment safely. However, there are conditions or medications with which you can't use the vaginal ring. You should take special care when using this vaginal ring if you have epilepsy; have a close family member who has had breast cancer; or if you have liver problems or Crohn's disease. You shouldn't use this medication if you are allergic to the main ingredients, if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, have a history of blood clots, have had a heart attack or if you get migraines. Epilepsy medications, St John's Wort, medications to treat HIV infections or certain antibiotics may affect how well this medication works, so it's important that you mention any underlying health conditions of medications you are taking during your online consultation.

Make sure not to leave your ring in for over 3 weeks and do not forget to replace it with a new one. If you fail to comply with these steps, you'll run a real risk of becoming pregnant.

Side effects with the NuvaRing are unusual, but they can occur. If you are experiencing side effects, these are usually mild in nature and pass when your body has become used to the contraceptive hormones, therefore it is advised to stick with the NuvaRing for three months before deciding to opt for a different hormonal contraceptive.

The most common side effects include abdominal pain, acne, weight gain, breast pain, yeast infections or painful periods. If you experience anything more serious or if these effects persist, it is best to speak to your doctor.

You can buy this treatment online from euroClinix if you are over the age of 18 years. Because it's a branded prescription medication, you are required to complete a free online consultation to help our doctors make sure that this is the right choice of contraception for you. This is mandatory for all prescription medication in the UK, whether you order contraception in-person or online.

We provide an all-inclusive service at euroClinix meaning you only buy the medication and we will include the consultation, prescription and delivery for free. On orders made before 4.30pm, you will receive the NuvaRing the very next day.

Please note that this treatment is only available in a three-month supply from euroClinix, as it can only be stored at room temperature for up to four months, after which it requires refrigeration.