What to know about a used NuvaRing

NuvaRing is a flexible vaginal ring that releases contraceptive hormones. It is worn in the vagina for the prescribed schedule, then removed for the scheduled ring-free interval or replaced according to the product plan. A ring that has been used should not be washed and reused unless a clinician or the product instructions specifically say so.

Contraceptive protection can be affected if the ring was removed, expelled or left out longer than the instructions allow. The next step depends on when this happened and where you are in the ring cycle, so avoid guessing from bleeding alone.

Wash your hands before removal, gently hook a finger under the ring and withdraw it. Wrap the used ring and place it in household waste according to the product instructions; do not flush it. Wash your hands again afterwards.

If the ring fell out, was forgotten or was inserted late, contact a pharmacist or contraceptive clinician promptly for instructions. They may advise inserting a new ring and using condoms for a period of time. If unprotected sex occurred after a possible interruption, ask promptly whether emergency contraception is appropriate. A [Combined Pill](/treatments/contraception-and-family-planning/combined-pill/) is another hormonal contraceptive option, but it is not interchangeable dose-for-dose with the ring.

Seek urgent medical help for sudden chest pain, difficulty breathing, coughing blood, a painful swollen leg, sudden weakness, severe headache or vision loss. These symptoms can signal a serious clotting or neurological problem and should not be managed by simply removing the ring.

Ask when to insert the next ring, what backup contraception is needed after an interruption, whether emergency contraception should be considered and which symptoms require urgent assessment.