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Can the removal of a vaginal ring affect the menstruation?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I have been on the NuvaRing constantly for three years. I took my ring out last week for my ring-free week and still have not gotten my period. I am sexually active but very safe. Should I be worried about anything?

Thank you.

Answered by Dr. Georges Hany Kozah

Education:

MD

Professional Bio:

Dr. Georges Hany Kozah is an experienced Lebanese Gynecologist with an MD from The Lebanese University Faculty of Medical Sciences (2016) and a Fellowship completed in 2022. Specializing in high-risk obstetrics, advanced ultrasound, oncology, colposcopy, and hysteroscopy, he combines expertise with a patient-centered approach. Passionate about women’s health, Dr. Kozah strives for excellence and optimal outcomes in collaborative, innovative care.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

Since you have been using the NuvaRing consistently for three years, a delayed or missed withdrawal bleed during your ring-free week is not necessarily a cause for concern. Hormonal birth control like NuvaRing can sometimes thin the uterine lining over time, leading to lighter, shorter, or even skipped periods.

Possible reasons for your missed period:

  1. Hormonal suppression – Long-term NuvaRing use can reduce or stop periods.
  2. Stress or lifestyle factors – Stress, diet changes, or illness can affect cycle timing.
  3. Pregnancy (unlikely but possible) – Although you have been safe, no method is 100 % effective.

What you can do:

1. Wait a few more days – If you still do not get your period, it may just be a light or missed withdrawal bleed.

2. Take a home pregnancy test – If you are concerned, take a pregnancy test before inserting your new ring.

3. Monitor the next cycle – If this happens repeatedly, consult your doctor to rule out hormonal imbalances.

If you feel normal, it is likely just a NuvaRing effect. But if you experience breast tenderness, nausea, or unusual fatigue, testing for pregnancy is a good precaution. Would you like tips on regulating your withdrawal bleeding while on NuvaRing?

I hope this information helps you.

Revert in case of queries.

Regards.

Medically reviewed by iCliniq medical review team
Published At May 29, 2025
Reviewed At June 11, 2025

Education:

MD

Professional Bio:

Dr. Georges Hany Kozah is an experienced Lebanese Gynecologist with an MD from The Lebanese University Faculty of Medical Sciences (2016) and a Fellowship completed in 2022. Specializing in high-risk obstetrics, advanced ultrasound, oncology, colposcopy, and hysteroscopy, he combines expertise with a patient-centered approach. Passionate about women’s health, Dr. Kozah strives for excellence and optimal outcomes in collaborative, innovative care.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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Five quick questions to help you understand potential changes to your period after removing a vaginal ring, and when to consider speaking with a doctor.

This tool provides educational information only and does not diagnose, treat, or replace professional medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical guidance.

Education:

MD

Professional Bio:

Dr. Georges Hany Kozah is an experienced Lebanese Gynecologist with an MD from The Lebanese University Faculty of Medical Sciences (2016) and a Fellowship completed in 2022. Specializing in high-risk obstetrics, advanced ultrasound, oncology, colposcopy, and hysteroscopy, he combines expertise with a patient-centered approach. Passionate about women’s health, Dr. Kozah strives for excellence and optimal outcomes in collaborative, innovative care.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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