Cycle control, tolerability, efficacy and acceptability of the vaginal contraceptive ring, NuvaRing: results of clinical experience in Germany

Abstract

Objectives: To investigate the real-life clinical experience of NuvaRing users in Germany.

Methods: An open-label, prospective, uncontrolled, non-randomized, multicentre postmarketing surveillance study was conducted by 1204 gynaecologists amongst 5823 women requesting contraception. The women underwent routine examinations and contraceptive counselling, and were assessed after three and six cycles of NuvaRing use.

Results: Good cycle control was observed and there was a reduction in cycle irregularity and inter-menstrual bleeding, bleeding duration and intensity, and dysmenorrhoea. NuvaRing was well tolerated, and had no significant effect on body weight or blood pressure. Nine women became pregnant unintentionally (two had conceived before they started to use NuvaRing, three due to non-compliance, one because of repeated ring expulsion/loss and three during treatment in spite of having applied this latter as instructed). Most women expressed their satisfaction with NuvaRing; 82% were 'very satisfied/ satisfied', 72% planned to continue using it and 82% would recommend it to others. More than 90% of women found NuvaRing 'without problems/easy' to insert and to remove, and more than 80% of the women and their partners were not disturbed by its presence during intercourse.

Conclusion: NuvaRing is a highly effective and acceptable method of once-monthly contraception that is safe and well tolerated.