NuvaRing vs. Paragard for Birth Control: Important Differences and Potential Risks.

NuvaRing

(etonogestrel / ethinyl estradiol)

Paragard

(copper IUD)

Summary for NuvaRing

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.

Indications for NuvaRing

Prevention of pregnancy

Pros and Cons for NuvaRing

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

Common Side Effects for NuvaRing

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%)

Warnings for NuvaRing

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

Summary for Paragard

Prescription only

Paragard (copper IUD) is a hormone-free intrauterine device (IUD) that's used to prevent pregnancy. It's a small, T-shaped device that's inserted into the uterus (womb) by a healthcare provider. Paragard (copper IUD) is convenient to use because you can leave it in place for up to 10 years. It's also one of the most effective forms of birth control available. Some common side effects of Paragard (copper IUD) include heavier or longer menstrual periods and bleeding and spotting in between each period.

Indications for Paragard

To prevent pregnancy

Pros and Cons for Paragard

Pros

Over 99% effective at preventing pregnancy
Doesn't contain any hormones
Each Paragard (copper IUD) can be used for up to 10 years at a time.
Can be removed by a healthcare provider at any time

Cons

Must be placed into the uterus by a healthcare provider
Placement procedure can be uncomfortable
Might cause heavier or longer periods
Doesn't protect against sexually transmitted diseases (STDs)

Common Side Effects for Paragard

Pain and cramping, including menstrual cramps (up to 12%)
IUD falling out of place (up to 6%)
Longer menstrual periods
Spotting between menstrual periods

Please note: Your risk for certain side effects are higher in the first few years after Paragard (copper IUD) placement and lowers over time.

Warnings for Paragard

Changes in bleeding pattern
Risks with becoming pregnant with Paragard (copper IUD) in place
Sepsis (complication from an infection)
Pelvic inflammatory disease and inflammation in the uterus
Difficult removal of Paragard (copper IUD)
Tear in the uterus
Paragard (copper IUD) falling out
Tissue damage from certain medical procedures or scans

Prices with our coupons for NuvaRing vs. Paragard

NuvaRing1 ring / 0.12mg/0.015mg

$48.00$204.83

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Paragard1 iud / 1 unit

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NuvaRing vs. Paragard

NuvaRing

Paragard

Summary for NuvaRing

Indications for NuvaRing

Pros and Cons for NuvaRing

Pros

Cons

Common Side Effects for NuvaRing

Warnings for NuvaRing

Summary for Paragard

Indications for Paragard

Pros and Cons for Paragard

Pros

Cons

Common Side Effects for Paragard

Warnings for Paragard

Prices with our coupons for NuvaRing vs. Paragard

Compare other Birth Control drugs

Browse medications by letter

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NuvaRing

Paragard

Summary for NuvaRing

Indications for NuvaRing

Pros and Cons for NuvaRing

Pros

Cons

Common Side Effects for NuvaRing

Warnings for NuvaRing

Summary for Paragard

Indications for Paragard

Pros and Cons for Paragard

Pros

Cons

Common Side Effects for Paragard

Warnings for Paragard