Why Annovera?

• How long does Annovera last?

  Annovera is a long-lasting birth control ring that lasts for one whole trip around the sun. That’s 13 cycles, which is 13 periods, for those counting.

  For each cycle, Annovera is inserted and left in place for 21 continuous days and then removed for 7 days.

• How long after insertion does Annovera start working?

  It depends on where in your cycle you start. If you insert Annovera between days 2 and 5 of your period contraceptive protection starts right away. If your menstrual cycles are irregular or if you start Annovera more than 5 days from your last menstrual bleeding, or if you are switching from a progestin-only birth control method, you should use a barrier method (like a condom) during sex for the first 7 days with Annovera. If you are switching from another birth control method, our providers will guide you about when to start Annovera.

• Is Annovera effective at preventing pregnancy?

  Yup—when used as directed, Annovera is as effective as the pill* (maybe more effective because you don't have to remember to take it every day.)

  *Annovera is 97.3% effective at preventing unintended pregnancy.

• Is Annovera FDA approved?

  Yes!

• Does Annovera protect against HIV or STIs?

  No. Condoms are still your best bet to prevent against STIs, and PrEP is the most effective method of HIV prevention. Annovera is compatible with male condoms made with natural rubber latex, polyisoprene, and polyurethane.

• How should I use Annovera?

  You can insert and remove it yourself, giving you control over your fertility and menstruation. For each cycle, Annovera is inserted and left in place for 21 continuous days and then removed for 7 days.

• What does Annovera feel like?

  It’s a soft and squishy ring that fits comfortably in your body during daily activities, including sex. Most women don’t feel Annovera once it is in place.

• Can you leave Annovera in during sex?

  Yes, it is designed to be worn during vaginal intercourse. If you prefer, you can remove it for up to 2 hours. If Annovera is out of your vagina for more than 2 hours at one time or at different times that add up to more than 2 hours over the 21 days of continuous use, then you will need to use another method of birth control (such as male condoms or spermicide) until Annovera has been in your vagina for 7 consecutive days again.

• How is Annovera different from other vaginal rings?

  Nuvaring and its generics are replaced monthly and last one cycle each. But Annovera lasts a year (13 cycles). For each cycle, you insert Annovera and leave it in for 21 continuous days, then pull it out for 7 days. And repeat.

• Do I need to see my healthcare provider to stop using Annovera?

  Nope. Annovera does not require a healthcare visit for insertion or removal. You can easily remove it on your own if you change your mind about using birth control.

• What if my Annovera ring is nearing its expiration date?

  If you insert Annovera on or before the expiration date, it will last for the complete 13 cycles (1 year) from insertion.

• What should I do if I forget to take out Annovera?

  If Annovera is left in your vagina for more than 21 days, you should remove it for 7 days and then reinsert it for 21 days to resume a 21-to-7 schedule.