NuvaRing Linked to Increased Risk of Pulmonary Embolism, Deep Vein Thrombosis

NuvaRing Linked to Increased Risk of Pulmonary Embolism, Deep Vein Thrombosis

By Matt O’Donnell

 

Millions of women use NuvaRing birth control believing it to be just as safe as other contraceptives. However, several recent studies suggest it may increase the risk of dangerous blood clots and related side effects, including pulmonary embolism (PE) and deep vein thrombosis (PE).

 

Close to 5 million U.S. NuvaRing prescriptions were written in 2010. The once-a-month vaginal ring contraceptive is marketed by Merck as containing lower doses of hormones, but what isn’t indicated in marketing materials is that the hormones used in NuvaRing can increase the risk of blood clots by as much as 56% over traditional birth control pills, according to a 2011 report from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). More recent NuvaRing blood clot studies indicate this risk may be even higher. A May 2012 study published in The British Medical Journal linked vaginal rings like NuvaRing to as much as a 90% increased risk of blood clots over oral contraceptives, while a June 2012 study in The New England Journal of Medicine found that women who use vaginal ring contraceptives are up to three-times more likely to develop dangerous blood clots. More than 50 deaths have been attributed to NuvaRing.