I’ve been using the NuvaRing as my form of birth control since April 2019. I have used other different types of birth controls including different types of pills and the Depo-Provera shot every three months. Since I began having periods, the summer before 8th grade, they were very irregular. Sometimes I would go months without a period or bleed for two—two and a half weeks and cramp for even longer. Eventually, after many fainting episodes in my freshman year of school, I was allowed to go to see an OBGYN who prescribed my first round of birth control pills.
But then the pills didn’t keep my periods regular and I continued to suffer from breakthrough bleeding. So then I began using the Depo-Provera shots. The Depo-Provera, a shot given every three months is mostly for skipping periods, an option I willingly accepted. Unfortunately, after the second shot, about five months in, I again began to experience more breakthrough bleeding, excessive episodes of cramping, and other hormonal issues (i.e. intense acne breakouts). I continued the Depo shot until July 2018 when I transitioned back to pills that cycled to skip my periods. Weaning myself off of Depo-Provera completely trashed my system as the medicine that my body relied on was taken away. Honestly, I would recommend staying away from this type of birth control.
Now, I am using the NuvaRing. The ring works exactly like other types of birth control. Three weeks with a ring placed in and then one week out to have your period. I can honestly say, while my periods themselves really aren’t any better with pain or PMS or heaviness of bleeding, the NuvaRing is really good at keeping my cycle regular. The first time I used the NUVA ring, it was an uncomfortable feeling only because I had to get used to it. Now that I am, it’s even more comfortable than using a tampon. I would recommend this to birth control users who normally forget to take pills or don’t like the idea of an IUD or implant. One thing to remember: you have to insert the ring yourself so make sure you are comfortable with the process.
I found that most insurance companies will cover the price, but always talk to your OBGYN and your insurance provider to confirm.