But, as with any birth control method, how well NuvaRing works at preventing pregnancy directly relies on you using it properly. So, if you use NuvaRing (or plan to), it is important that you know how to use it correctly and what to do in case your NuvaRing falls out or if you forgot to take it out.
Why Can The NuvaRing Fall Out?
NuvaRing may slip out when:
You take out a tamponIf you strain while having a bowel movementYou have sex
So, it is important that you check after any of these events to make sure that your NuvaRing didn’t fall out. It may also be helpful to know that if you have a condition that affects the vagina, like a prolapsed (dropped) uterus, your NuvaRing may be more likely to fall out.
If it seems like your NuvaRing falls out a lot, you should talk to your healthcare provider to see if there may be a better contraceptive method for you.
What to Do
So, what happens if you suddenly discover that your NuvaRing fell out? Well, first of all, don’t panic! It’s time for some quick thinking and action.
If Your NuvaRing Fell Out Less Than 3 Hours Ago
If it has been out less than three hours since your NuvaRing fell out, you should still be protected against unintended pregnancy.
Here’s what to do:
Simply take the Nuvaring that has fallen out and rinse it clean with cool-to-lukewarm water (not hot). Wash and dry your hands. Then, reinsert the same NuvaRing as soon as possible. If you have lost the NuvaRing, you can insert a new one – just make sure to stay on the same schedule that you would have followed if you were still using the lost NuvaRing (so if you are in week 2, still consider yourself to be in week 2).
If your NuvaRing fell out more than three hours ago.
If your NuvaRing is out for more than three hours during week 1 or week 2, your NuvaRing’s effectiveness may be compromised (meaning, it may not work anymore).
What to do:
You should still reinsert the NuvaRing as soon as you remember. Just to be safe, make sure that you use a backup method of birth control (such as male condoms or spermicide) until the NuvaRing that you have just reinserted has been in place for seven days in a row.
Make sure that you read the insert that comes inside your NuvaRing package for more detailed information about NuvaRing use, risks, and effectiveness.
If your NuvaRing is out for longer than three hours during week 3, throw away the NuvaRing that fell out.
You can choose one of the following two options:
Insert a new NuvaRing immediately. This will start your next three-week use cycle (so once you insert the NuvaRing, consider it Day 1 of the week. If you choose this option, you may not have a period from your previous cycle, but spotting or breakthrough bleeding may occur. You can wait, but you need to insert a new NuvaRing no later than seven days from the time that your old NuvaRing fell out. You may have your period during this time. You should also use a backup birth control method until the new ring has been used for seven days.
If Your NuvaRing Breaks
It is also possible that your NuvaRing may break—so it will no longer be in a complete circle. This does not affect the NuvaRing from releasing its hormones. As long as the NuvaRing stays in your vagina, it will still be effective at preventing pregnancy.
If your NuvaRing breaks and falls out of your vagina, just throw it away. Depending on how much time has gone by since it has fallen out, follow the instructions above.
