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Compare NuvaRing vs. Paragard

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

  • Nuvaring (etonogestrel / ethinyl estradiol)
    Paragard (copper IUD)
  • Nuvaring (etonogestrel / ethinyl estradiol)
    Paragard (copper IUD)

  • Summary of NuvaRing vs. Paragard

    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 Contraceptive
    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 of NuvaRing vs. Paragard

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

  • Pros and Cons of NuvaRing vs. Paragard

    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 Contraceptive
    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 of NuvaRing vs. Paragard

    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
    •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 of NuvaRing vs. Paragard

    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
    •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

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    Learn more about Paragard

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