The combined contraceptive vaginal ring (NuvaRing): first experience in daily clinical practice in The Netherlands.

OBJECTIVES

The combined contraceptive vaginal ring (NuvaRing) has been shown to be safe and effective, with high levels of user compliance, acceptance and satisfaction. However, the data collected from registration studies may differ from the clinical situation. The Dutch NuvaRing Experience Project was initiated to gain insight into NuvaRing use in daily clinical practice.

METHODS

A total of 1,130 women, recruited by 257 general practitioners, participated in this observational study. Data on compliance, acceptance, satisfaction, and adverse events were collected during the first 3 months of ring use via an online questionnaire.

RESULTS

The results of this study were almost identical to those of the international registration studies. The majority of women complied with the prescribed regimen and were (very) satisfied with NuvaRing, primarily because of the once-a-month administration, low hormonal dose, and ease of use. Only one pregnancy was recorded throughout the study period. The bleeding pattern was better than with the pill, and there were few estrogen-related adverse events. Only a small proportion of women discontinued because of local adverse events such as discomfort during intercourse and expulsion. Following study completion, 80% of women continued with NuvaRing.

CONCLUSIONS

In The Netherlands, the first clinical experiences with NuvaRing in daily practice confirm that the contraceptive ring is a reliable, safe, and convenient method of contraception.