The NuvaRing: A “set and forget” alternative to the pill — now on the PBS
If you’ve ever found it hard to remember your pill every day, you’re definitely not alone. Between busy mornings, travel, and life in general, it’s easy to miss a dose. For years, the main alternatives were long-acting options like the IUD or implant — great for some, but not for everyone.
Now there’s another option getting more attention: the NuvaRing, a small, flexible ring that sits comfortably inside the vagina and releases hormones steadily over the month. And from 1 November 2025, it’s finally being added to the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) — meaning it will now be much more affordable.
What actually is the NuvaRing?
Think of it as the “monthly version” of the pill. It contains the same types of hormones — oestrogen and progestogen — but instead of taking them orally, your body absorbs them directly through the vaginal wall. You insert the ring yourself (it’s soft and flexible, about 5 cm across), leave it in for three weeks, then remove it for one week — during that week you usually get a light withdrawal bleed. After that, you pop in a new one. Some people choose to skip periods by skipping the ring-free week, and putting the new one in early.
That’s it — no daily reminders, no fuss.
Why do some people love it?
The biggest drawcard is convenience. You only have to think about your contraception once a month, not every morning. It’s also a good option if you’ve had issues with nausea or gastrointestinal absorption from the pill — because the hormones don’t go through your digestive system. Periods often become more predictable, lighter, and less painful. And when you decide to stop, fertility typically returns quickly — usually within a few weeks.
If used correctly, the vaginal ring is 99.5% effective. With real life use, it can be less effective (93%), for example if you forget to take it out or put it back on time.
What about comfort or side effects?
Most people can’t feel the ring once it’s in place, and neither can their partner. Some might notice it at first, but this usually settles after the first cycle or two.
Side-effects are similar to those of the combined oral contraceptive pill — things like breast tenderness, mild nausea, bloating, or mood changes. These are often short-lived. As with any oestrogen-containing method, there are a few health conditions that make it unsuitable (for example, migraines with aura, clotting disorders, or smoking over the age of 35). That’s something we’d check carefully before prescribing.
The good news: it’s finally affordable
Until now, NuvaRing users have been paying the full private price — often more than $270 per year.
From 1 November 2025, the ring will be listed on the PBS, bringing the cost down to $31.60 per script (or $7.70 if you have a concession card). From 1 January 2026, the price will drop further to $25 per script as part of the Federal Government’s cheaper medicines initiative.
It’s a huge step toward giving Australian women and gender-diverse people more accessible contraceptive choices.
Who might find it a good fit?
NuvaRing tends to suit people who:
Want a reliable hormonal method but don’t want an implant or IUD
Find remembering a daily pill difficult
Prefer something reversible with quick return to fertility
Don’t mind handling their own contraception in a comfortable, private way
The bottom line
The NuvaRing isn’t new internationally, but for many Australians, it’s flown under the radar — largely because of cost and lack of awareness. With its PBS listing from 1 November 2025, that’s set to change. If you’re curious about trying the ring, or wondering how it compares to your current method, it’s worth chatting through your options. As with all contraception, the best choice is the one that fits your health, lifestyle, and comfort level.