Kolo asked
I just bought my NuvaRing and I’m currently using Combined pills. I was wondering if I switch from the pill to the Ring will I get a period or will I skip it?
Answer
Yes, you will get your period in the first month you use Nuvaring, but it may differ from your usual time. It all depends on when you decide to start using Nuvaring. If you use Nuvaring as indicated (inserted for 3 continuous weeks followed by a one week ring-free interval), you will get your period two or three days after it is removed.
How To Switch From Birth Control Pills To Nuvaring
Per the prescribing information for Nuvaring, you can start therapy at any point in your menstrual cycle when you are taking birth control pills:
The woman may switch from her previous CHC [combined hormone contraceptive pill] on any day, but at the latest on the day following the usual hormone-free interval, if she has been using her hormonal method consistently and correctly, or if it is reasonably certain that she is not pregnant.
If you taking a progestin only pill (i.e. "minipill"), you can also switch to the Nuvaring on any day but you need to use back-up contraception for 7 days to be protected from pregnancy.
When Will You Get Your Period On Nuvaring After Switching?
The recommended dosing for Nuvaring is as follows:
- Insert the Nuvaring vaginally and keep in place continuously for 3 weeks.
- If the Nuvaring is taken out and left outside of the vagina for less than 3 hours, contraceptive efficacy is not reduced. The ring can be rinsed with cool to lukewarm water and reinserted as soon as possible.
- After Nuvaring has been in place for 3 weeks, it is removed for a 1-week break, during which a withdrawal bleed usually occurs within 2 to 3 days.
- A new ring is inserted 1 week after the last ring was removed, on the same day and at about the same time. A new ring should be inserted 1 week later on schedule, even if withdrawal bleeding has not stopped.
Even if you start your Nuvaring mid-cycle, or half-way through your birth control pill pack, you will still get your period when you remove the ring (after 3 weeks). However, it is important to mention that you may experience breakthrough bleeding or spotting for your first cycle or two. This is especially likely if you start the Nuvaring mid-cycle as it usually takes some time for your body to become accustomed to your new schedule.
Summary
- Regardless of of the time you usually get your period, you will get your period within 2 or 3 days after removing the Nuvaring (presumably after the 3 week insertion period).
