Hundreds of thousands of Australian women will have access to another affordable contraception option as a vaginal ring is added to the government's medication subsidy scheme for the first time.

The NuvaRing is a prescription contraceptive method which is inserted into the vagina by the user and distributes hormones to stop ovulation.

It can be used for three weeks in a row before being removed for a week, and a new one is then inserted.

Used correctly, the ring is is 99.5 per cent effective, which is similar to other hormonal contraceptive options.

The NuvaRing is available in a three-pack as a private script for $130.

From November 1, when it will be added to the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS), it will cost general patients $31.60 and concessional patients $7.70.

From January

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