NuvaRing Effectiveness: A User's First-Month Experience

Question
Hi Brenda,

Ok. This was my first month using the Nuvaring. I put the Nuvaring in for one full cycle of three weeks; I took the Nuvaring out for one week so that I could have my period, that was on a Sunday March 1st. The next Sunday I should have replaced the ring as directed. Although, I was unable to get my prescription refilled in time. I ended up not being able to replace the ring for one whole week after I was supposed to replace it. So I was supposed to put in the new ring on March 8th but I did not put it in until March 14th. How much does my chance of pregnancy go up for the whole duration of the new ring? It has been more than seven days now since I have had the new ring in, can I have unprotected sex? Or must we use a backup for the entire month until I replace the new ring correctly after my next menstrual cycle?

Thanks you so much for your help!

A

Answer
Dear Alicia,

A barrier method such as condoms or spermicides must be used until the new ring has been used continuously for a minimum of seven days. Personally, I would recommend using a back-up method for the duration of the cycle - just to be particularly sure.

I hope this has helped you and answered your question. I wish you well.

Brenda