Efficacy, safety, and patient acceptability of the etonogestrel and ethinyl estradiol vaginal ring

Abstract

Iñaki Lete, Maialen Pérez de Arrilucea, María Rodríguez, Eskerne BelloDepartment of Gynecology, University Hospital Araba, Vitoria, Spain Abstract: The contraceptive vaginal ring (CVR) is a combined hormonal contraceptive method, containing ethinyl estradiol and etonogestrel, that works by inhibiting ovulation. It differs from combined oral contraceptives (COCs) in the route of administration, which is vaginal, and the frequency of administration, which is monthly. The efficacy of the CVR is similar to that of COCs but compliance appears to be better in typical users. The CVR enables appropriate control of the menstrual cycle, with a similar side effect profile to COCs, while achieving good user acceptance. Different studies have established noncontraceptive beneficial effects of the CVR; for example, it can be useful for treating dysmenorrhea or excess menstrual bleeding. Recent epidemiological studies have confirmed that the risk of venous thromboembolism with the CVR is similar to that of COCs, including COCs that contain levonorgestrel. Keywords: contraceptive vaginal ring, efficacy, cycle control, acceptability, safety