NuvaRing Overview

NuvaRing Overview The Background of NuvaRing NuvaRing is a flexible, transparent, birth control ring that is about two inches in diameter. It is inserted into the vagina and left for three weeks until it is taken out. After one week, during which time the menstrual cycle bleeding usually occurs, a new NuvaRing is inserted for another three-weeks. NuvaRing's position in the vagina is not critical for its function.

NuvaRing is made by Organon USA. Organon USA is a pharmaceutical company owned by the multi-national conglomerate Akzo Nobel, which is headquartered in the Netherlands. NuvaRing was first approved in the Netherlands in February 2001.

On October 3, 2001, NuvaRing was approved in the United States by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). How The Drug Works NuvaRing releases two types of hormones ? an estrogen and a progestin. It is a third generation birth control that incorporates a different form of progestin than older contraceptives called desogestrel. The vaginal walls absorb the hormones and release them into the bloodstream. The hormones are designed to prevent the ovaries from producing mature eggs. Also, the lining of the uterus becomes thinner which obstructs implantation of a fertilized egg.

The Effectiveness of NuvaRing There were three clinical trials of 13 cycles of NuvaRing use. In those trials, between one and two women out of 100 became pregnant. NuvaRing's manufacturer claims it is highly effective "when used as directed." There are side effects, though, and some are dangerous.

Studies concluded as soon as 1995 that third generation contraceptives that had desogestrel had almost double the risk of venous thrombosis (blood clots) than second generation oral contraceptives. The FDA confirmed this danger in 1995 stating that "new studies indicated that a two-fold increase in the risk of venous blood clots associated with products containing desogestrel." As of today, there have not been any non-industry sponsored studies comparing the benefits of third generation contraceptives such as NuvaRing to second generation contraceptives. The Side Effects of NuvaRing Common side effects reported by women who have used NuvaRing are vaginal infections and irritation, vaginal secretion, nausea, headache, and weight gain. A more serious side effect is a higher risk of venous thrombosis (blood clots), which could lead to a stroke or heart attack.

Studies have shown a link between desogestrel and a higher risk of blood clots and stroke. NuvaRing has been associated with blood clots including deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, as well as stroke and heart attack. NuvaRing Class Action Lawsuits As of today, there are no class action lawsuits against the maker of NuvaRing for problems caused by its use.

Individuals, couples, and families are filing lawsuits on their own for serious problems caused by NuvaRing. However, the number of these lawsuits is increasing and someday there may be a class action. If you or a loved one has suffered NuvaRing side effects including blood clots, stroke, or heart attack, you may be able to pursue a NuvaRing lawsuit.

Matthew Peschong is author of this article on Nuvaring Blood Clots Lawyer. Find more information about Nuvaring Lawsuit Lawyers here.