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Home / Contraception / Contraceptive Ring
NuvaRing
Prices from
£69.99

A ring that regulates your period

How does it work?

The contraceptive ring works in three ways to prevent pregnancy. The oestrogen it contains prevents the process of ovulation so that no egg is released from the ovaries, while the progestogen thickens the cervical mucus to stop the sperm from entering. In addition, it thins the lining of the womb so that in the unlikely event that an egg were fertilised, it would be unable to attach and grow.

How do you use it?

Each ring will be individually packaged and the most effective way of using it is to insert it on the first day of your period. If you start using it at a different point in your cycle, you will not be completely protected against pregnancy until it has been inserted for seven days.

In order to insert it, you should squeeze it between your thumb and index finger so that the shape is vertical rather than circular to insert it into the vagina. Once it has been inserted for 21 days, you should remove it and wait seven days before using a new one. During the seven day break you will experience withdrawal bleeding, which is similar to a period but should be less heavy and painful.

Who can use the contraceptive ring?

Most women between the ages of 18 and 35 will be able to use the vaginal ring as an effective form of contraception, although it is not usually prescribed to women who smoke or are overweight.

Certain medical conditions may also mean you cannot use this form of hormonal contraception. These include migraines and circulation or heart conditions (including a history blood clots, stroke or heart attack). Some medications may also react badly with the active ingredients in it so it's important to mention them during your medical consultation.

What are the side effects?

As with all prescription medication, there is some risk of side effects. These symptoms are usually rare and last only until the body has adjusted to the hormones. They include abdominal pain, genital itching, mood swings, headaches, breast tenderness and nausea. In rare cases the device may dislodge and fall out of the vagina, but it can quickly be reinserted without compromising its effectiveness.

Where can you buy the contraceptive ring?

You can buy this online from 121doc. By completing an online medical consultation you can avoid attending a physical clinic but still ensure the medication is right for you.

After your consultation is complete, a doctor will issue a prescription for the medication once we are satisfied it is the safest and most effective method for you. Your order will be delivered using a free next day delivery service.

Medical review byDr. Caroline FontanaLast review 11 May 2026
Dr. Caroline Fontana

FAQs

What is included in the online consultation?
Will a doctor review my consultation?
What happens after I submit my order?
What services are included with my order?
Is the price all-inclusive?
What are my delivery options?
Is it safe to buy prescription medication online?
Is this service discreet?
What is included in the online consultation?

Our online consultations are in the format of short medical questionnaires. You will be asked general questions about your health and medical history, as well as specific medical questions relevant to the treatment you have chosen. We will also ask you for your payment and delivery details to complete the order.

Online consultations take no longer than 5 minutes to complete. All questions are necessary when issuing prescription medicines. It means that our doctors can make sure the treatment is safe and right for you.

Will a doctor review my consultation?

Yes, it is a legal requirement that all online consultations are reviewed by a registered doctor. This is to make sure the chosen treatment is safe and right for you to take. All personal information is stored securely and confidentially.

Please note, all orders are subject to doctor approval, and we cannot guarantee that your order will be approved.

What happens after I submit my order?

Your online consultation will be sent directly to our medical team, where it will be reviewed by on of our in-house doctors.

If a doctor approves you for treatment, they will issue a prescription. Your prescription will then be forwarded to our pharmacist, where you medication will be dispensed and dispatched for delivery.

What services are included with my order?

Every order includes:

  • Free consultation - your consultation will be personally reviewed by one of our registered doctors.
  • Free prescription - a doctor will issue you a prescription if approved for treatment.
  • Free delivery - we provide free express delivery across Europe, you should receive your order in 1-2 working days.
Is the price all-inclusive?

Yes, our service is all-inclusive and there are no hidden fees. All 121doc orders include a free online consultation, a free prescription and free express delivery.

What are my delivery options?

We offer several delivery options at no extra charge:

  • Next-day delivery
  • UPS Access Point - convenient parcel drop-off and collection near your home or work address
  • Nominated-day delivery - choose the most convenient day for delivery

All these options can be tracked and require a signature on delivery. If you are not in, a friend or relative can sign in your place.

Is it safe to buy prescription medication online?

It is safe to buy prescription medications online from genuine and reputable healthcare providers, like 121doc.

Our medical staff and facilities are registered with the relevant medical governing bodies. We also ensure your data is protected by adhering to European data privacy laws.

You can learn more about our certifications here.

Is this service discreet?

Our patients’ privacy is of utmost importance. All your medical information is securely stored and only viewed by our doctors. We do not share your details with third-parties. We are also closely adhere to data privacy laws.

All orders will only show on invoices, bank statements, etc. as ‘HHC Ltd’.