Missed Birth Control Ring (NuvaRing™)

In order for any birth control to be effective, it needs to be taken as directed. Timing and consistency are key! This fact sheet is to help you get back on track if you are late in removing or inserting a ring or if the ring falls out.

Please note that these are only recommendations. Consult your health care provider if you have any additional questions or concerns.

My ring has been out for less than three hours:

1. Rinse the ring off with lukewarm water and insert it as soon as possible.

2. Keep it in until your next scheduled ring removal day.

I forgot to insert my new ring, or my ring has been out for more than three hours:

During Week 1

Your ring has been out for more than three hours or you're not sure how long the ring has been out:

1. Insert your ring as soon as possible. 
2. Keep it in until your next scheduled ring removal day. 
3. Use back-up birth control (e.g. condoms) for the next seven days and consider using emergency contraception (Plan B™)

During Week 2 or 3

Your ring has been out for less than 72 hours (3 days):

1. Insert the ring as soon as possible.
2. Keep it in until your next scheduled ring removal day.
3. Start a new cycle with a new ring with no ring-free week.

Your ring has been out for more than 72 hours (3 days):

1. Insert your ring as soon as possible.
2. Keep it in until your next scheduled ring removal day.
3. Start a new cycle with a new ring with no ring-free week.
4. Use back-up birth control (e.g. condoms) for the next seven days and consider using emergency contraception (Plan B™)

If you forget to take the ring out:

Less than 28 days (i.e. up to one week too long):

1. Remove it.
2. Have a seven-day, ring-free interval, and then insert the next ring. You are still protected against pregnancy.

28 to 35 days:

1. Immediately remove it.
2. Insert a new ring without a ring-free interval.
3. Keep it in until your next scheduled ring removal day.

Greater than 35 days:

1. Immediately remove it.
2. Insert a new ring without a ring-free interval.
3. Keep it in until your next scheduled ring removal day.
4. Use back up birth control (e.g. condoms) for 7 days and consider using emergency contraception (Plan B™).

Still not sure what to do?

Visit the Sexuality and U website.
Call the KFL&A Public Health Sexual Health Information Line.

Reference:
Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada. "Missed Hormonal Contraceptives: New Recommendations". November 2008.