Vaginal Ring (NuvaRing)

Medication can help control high cholesterol; dietary restrictions and exercise can also help to achieve a healthier ratio between HDLs and LDLs. Individuals with peripheral arterial disease (PAD) should aim for LDL cholesterol levels of less than 100, often less than 70 mg/dL, to avoid heart attack and stroke.">cholesterol and triglycerides; have an allergy or sensitivity to the components of the ring; are 35 or older and smoke; or have high blood pressure and smoke. Women who use hormonal contraception are strongly advised not to smoke.

* The Affordable Care Act requires insurance companies to cover contraceptives with no co-pay, as of August 1, 2012. Not all plans must provide immediate coverage, but as more health plans come under the law's reach, more women will have access to all free FDA-approved forms of contraception. The specifics of how and when insurance companies must comply are still being worked out. For example, insurance companies may be able to charge a co-pay for a brand name drug when a generic is available, and regulations are still being determined for contraceptive methods that involve surgery or other medical procedures. For more information, see What You Need to Know About Birth Control Coverage.