General Information

NuvaRing is a vaginal ring that provides month-long contraceptive protection through the continuous release of estrogen and progestin over a 21 day period of use.

One NuvaRing is inserted in the vagina. The ring must remain in place continuously for three weeks, followed by a one-week ring-free interval.

Mechanism of Action

NuvaRing releases a continuous low dose of ethinyl estadiol, an estrogen, and etonogestrel, a progestin. Combination contraceptives work through the suppression of gonadotropins. Their primary function is the inhibition of ovulation; such contraceptives also alter the cervical mucus, which increases the difficulty of sperm entry to the uterus. Progesterone also makes the endometrium less favorable for implantation.

Side Effects

Adverse events associated with the use of NuvaRing may include (but are not limited to) the following:

• Vaginitis
• Headache
• Upper respiratory tract infection
• Leukorrhea
• Sinusitis
• Weight gain
• Nausea

Clinical Trial Results

Approval of NuvaRing is based on positive results from two larger clinical trials conducted worldwide with 2,322 women who were exposed to 23,289 cycles of NuvaRing. Pregnancy rates were between one and two percent.