Examining the efficacy, safety, and patient acceptability of the combined contraceptive vaginal ring (NuvaRing®)

Abstract

Devorah R Wieder, Lynn PattimakielCenter for Specialized Women’s Health, Ob/Gyn and Women’s Health Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH, USAAbstract: The contraceptive vaginal ring is a novel contraceptive method that offers unique advantages. Intravaginal delivery of both estrogen and progesterone allows continuous release of medication, resulting in lower systemic levels. The use of long-term combined hormonal contraception enables improved cycle control compared with progesterone-only methods. The indications and usage of the NuvaRing® are described along with the efficacy, tolerability, and safety. Overall, the contraceptive vaginal ring appears to be very effective, with a favorable side-effect profile, and is highly acceptable to most patients.Keywords: vaginal contraception, vaginal ring, hormonal contraception, contraceptive agents, contraceptive device, etonogestrel, ethinyl estradiol, NuvaRing