NuvaRing and occurence

I used Nuvaring for a couple years but quit using birth control (except condoms) a year ago. After about a year or so of using it, I would bleed during/after intercourse. This would occur a few days before and a few days after my cycle. Not pleasant. Over time though, it got to be a regular occurrence. The only time I didn't seem to bleed was during the middle of my cycle. So basically, my husband and I had a few days each month when we weren't worried about ruining sheets. After intercourse, I continued to spot for days. The other side effect was the "pregnancy mask" in which parts of my face would darken more than others when outside (even with regular use of sunscreen). Skin is better. Bleeding is getting better. (BTW, had a vaginal ultrasound and two gynecologists tell me they couldn't find anything wrong).

In order to counter some of the very negative postings regarding side effects of NuvaRing, I'd like to share my experience.

I had at, at one time or another, tried many different birth control options, all of which gave me terrible side effects. All variations of The Pill left me depressed, with heavy cramps and acne. The Depo-Provera shot made me gain a lot of weight and suffer through continuous spotting and cramping. The patch made me consistently nauseated.

NuvaRing has been the only method of birth control that has given absolutely no negative side effects! I have used it for over 2 years and I love it. My acne has cleared, my periods are shorter and lighter. I have not felt an ounce of depression or decreased sexual appetite, and my boyfriend doesn't feel it at all.

I post this only as a reminder that BIRTH CONTROL AFFECTS EVERYONE DIFFERENTLY. I would hate for anyone to read these postings and be frightened away from trying a medication that could be as helpful to them as it has been to me.

Many of those who experienced severe depression on this message board also mentioned having been depressed and treated for depression before using NuvaRing, which to me indicates a clear connection between having an already existing mental condition and the increased occurrence of depression with the medication.

Again, I have been using NuvaRing for over 2 years and have not experienced any of the side effects listed here. The only way to know for sure how you will benefit or not from a medication is to try it for yourself.