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Compare NuvaRing vs. Nexplanon

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

  • Nuvaring (etonogestrel / ethinyl estradiol)
    Nexplanon (etonogestrel)
  • Nuvaring (etonogestrel / ethinyl estradiol)
    Nexplanon (etonogestrel)

  • Summary of NuvaRing vs. Nexplanon

    Summary for Progestin / Estrogen combined contraceptive
    Prescription only

    NuvaRing (etonogestrel / ethinyl estradiol) can be used as birth control to help prevent pregnancy. It contains two hormones: a progestin and an estrogen. It's a latex-free, flexible plastic ring that’s inserted into the vagina. You keep it in your vagina for 3 weeks before you remove it for 1 week, and then you start again with a new ring. NuvaRing (etonogestrel / ethinyl estradiol) can cause side effects like headache and irritation in the vagina. Some people might also gain weight while using the medication. There are detailed instructions to help you use it properly. This birth control ring is available as brand-name and generic versions.

    Summary for Progestin
    Prescription only

    Nexplanon (etonogestrel) is an implant placed in your arm to prevent pregnancy. It's a type of long-acting birth control that can prevent pregnancy for up to 5 years after insertion. It's one of the most effective forms of birth control available. Nexplanon (etonogestrel) only contains one type of hormone, a progestin called etonogestrel. The most common side effects include headaches and irregular vaginal bleeding (e.g., longer periods, spotting).

  • Indications of NuvaRing vs. Nexplanon

    Indications for
    •Prevention of pregnancy
    Indications for
    •To prevent pregnancy

  • Pros and Cons of NuvaRing vs. Nexplanon

    Pros and Const for Progestin / Estrogen combined contraceptive
    Pros
    •A flexible plastic ring that you place into the vagina for 3 weeks at a time (not taken once a day)
    •Can insert and take out the birth control ring on your own
    •Very effective at preventing pregnancy when used as directed
    Cons
    •Need to remember when to take out the ring and when to insert a new one
    •Can accidentally come out during sex, bowel movements, or if it breaks
    •Not recommended for people over 35 who smoke because of higher risk of blood clots and stroke
    Pros and Const for Progestin
    Pros
    •Keeps working for 5 years without needing to remember to take the medication every day
    •Works better than birth control pills to prevent pregnancy
    •Can be inserted and removed at the medical office within a few minutes and without any kind of sedation (medication to put you asleep)
    •Can use while breastfeeding as long as it's been 4 weeks since you gave birth
    Cons
    •Common to have breakthrough bleeding and irregular cycles as side effects
    •Can raise your blood pressure or lead to mood changes
    •Can raise the risk of an ectopic pregnancy if you do get pregnant
    •Risk of the implant moving and not working well

  • Common Side Effects of NuvaRing vs. Nexplanon

    Common Side Effects for
    •Inflammation or irritation of the vagina (14%)
    •Headache, including migraine (11%)
    •Mood changes (e.g., depression, mood swings; 6%)
    •Device-related events (e.g., ring accidentally coming out, feeling discomfort in the vagina; 6%)
    •Nausea or vomiting (6%)
    •Vaginal discharge (6%)
    •Weight gain (5%)
    Common Side Effects for
    •Headache (25%)
    •Absence of period (20%)
    •More frequent or longer vaginal bleeding (20%)
    •Vaginal pain or itching (15%)
    •Weight gain (14%)
    •Acne (14%)
    •Breast pain (13%)
    •Stomach pain (11%)
    •Sore throat (11%)
    •Vaginal discharge (10%)

  • Warnings of NuvaRing vs. Nexplanon

    Common Side Effects for
    •Cigarette smoking and the risk of serious health problems
    •Risk of blood clots and related complications (e.g., heart attack, stroke)
    •Toxic shock syndrome (TSS)
    •Liver problems
    •High blood pressure
    •Vaginal irritation
    •Gallbladder problems
    •High blood sugar, high cholesterol, and high triglyceride levels
    •Possible risk of breast cancer or cervical cancer
    Common Side Effects for
    •Risk of problems from improper insertion and removal
    •Irregular periods
    •Risk of ectopic pregnancy
    •Risk of ovarian cyst
    •Risk of blood clots
    •Possible risk of cancer
    •Liver problems
    •High blood pressure
    •High blood sugar and cholesterol levels
    •Weight gain
    •Gallbladder problems
    •Vision changes in people who wear contact lenses
    •Fertility after removal

  • Prices with our coupons for NuvaRing vs. Nexplanon

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    Learn more about Nexplanon

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