Ethinyl Estradiol + Etonogestrel
Introduction To Ethinyl Estradiol + Etonogestrel
Ethinyl Estradiol + Etonogestrel is a combination of two medicines available in form of a flexible vaginal ring and is used for contraception (to prevent pregnancy). It must be used as directed by the doctor. It helps to prevent release and fertilization of the egg.
Ethinyl Estradiol + Etonogestrel comes as vaginal ring, which need to be inserted in vagina on monthly basis to avoid pregnancy. It should be taken as your doctor's advice. It is advised not to use more than one ring at one time and never forget to remove the ring at schedule time. Usually, you have to insert the ring inside vagina and have to left for the period of 3 weeks. After 3 weeks, take a break of one week before inserting the another ring. Basically, you experience monthly periods during free one week. If you forget to place another ring after more than of 7 days, then use additional method of contraception.
Nausea, stomach pain, headache, breast pain, and weight gain are some commonly seen side effects of this medicine. If these bother you, or appear serious, let your doctor know. There may be ways of reducing or preventing them. You might experience spotting or bleeding between menstrual periods or missed periods. Consult with your doctor if this occurs frequently or persists longer. Inform your doctor if you notice swelling and pain in your limbs, shortness of breath, chest pain or changes in vision, as it may be a sign of blood clot.
Before taking this medicine, let your doctor know if you smoke and are over 35, or if you have ever had a heart attack or have cancer of uterus/cervix, or vagina. Your doctor should also know about all other medicines you are taking as many of these may make this medicine less effective or change the way it works. Do not take the medicine if you are pregnant already or breastfeeding.
Uses of Ethinyl Estradiol + Etonogestrel
- Contraception
Benefits of Ethinyl Estradiol + Etonogestrel
Contraception
Ethinyl Estradiol + Etonogestrel is a flexible vaginal ring which helps prevent pregnancy and
thereby helps you in family planning. It works by stopping a woman's egg from
fully developing each month. The egg can no longer accept a sperm and
pregnancy is prevented. It is a reliable and safe method for contraception, if
used correctly. It does not interrupt with sex and you can lead a normal
routine life without any worries. Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully
to get maximum benefit.
Side effects of Ethinyl Estradiol + Etonogestrel
Most side effects do not require any medical attention and disappear as your body adjusts to the medicine. Consult your doctor if they persist or if you’re worried about them
Common side effects of Nuva Ring
- Nausea
- Stomach pain
- Headache
- Weight gain
- Breast pain
- Irregular uterine bleeding
How Ethinyl Estradiol + Etonogestrel works
Ethinyl Estradiol + Etonogestrel is a contraceptive vaginal ring. It works by preventing the release of egg (ovulation) and affecting sperm movement in the womb to prevent its union with the egg. It also changes the lining of the womb and renders it unsuitable for pregnancy.
Quick tips
- Ethinyl Estradiol + Etonogestrel is a flexible ring that is inserted into the vagina on a monthly basis to help you prevent pregnancy.
- Ethinyl Estradiol + Etonogestrel should be left in place for three weeks, after which the ring should be removed followed by a one week ring-free break. During the ring-free week withdrawal bleed similar to your normal period occurs.
- A new ring should be inserted after seven days, even if the bleeding has not completely stopped.
- You may experience menstrual irregularities such as spotting or bleeding between menstrual periods or missed periods. Consult your doctor if this persists.
- Do not use Ethinyl Estradiol + Etonogestrel if you are obese, smoker, on prolonged bed rest, or have a history of heart diseases or blood clots.
- Stop using Ethinyl Estradiol + Etonogestrel and inform your doctor immediately if you notice unexplained swelling and pain in your limbs, shortness of breath, chest pain, severe headache, or changes in vision. These could be symptoms of a blood clot in a vein.
Safety Advice
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What is Ethinyl Estradiol + Etonogestrel and what is it used for?
Ethinyl Estradiol + Etonogestrel is a flexible vaginal ring, which contains a combination of two hormones, estrogen and progesterone. It is used to prevent pregnancy.
Q. What if Ethinyl Estradiol + Etonogestrel gets removed accidentally?
If the ring is left outside of the vagina for less than 3 hours, its effectiveness is not reduced. It can be rinsed with cool to lukewarm water (not hot water) and can be re-inserted as soon as possible. If Ethinyl Estradiol + Etonogestrel is out of the vagina for more than 3 continuous hours, following conditions may apply: During weeks 1 and 2: Its effectiveness may be reduced, the ring should be re- inserted as soon as you remember. However, you must use a barrier method of contraception such as male condoms until the ring is placed continuously for 7 days. During week 3: In this case, please consult with your doctor.
Q. When and how to use Ethinyl Estradiol + Etonogestrel?
Ethinyl Estradiol + Etonogestrel should be used as per the advice of your doctor. Your doctor would suggest you the best possible days to use Ethinyl Estradiol + Etonogestrel, based on your medical history and menstrual period cycle. Ethinyl Estradiol + Etonogestrel is to be compressed and inserted in to the vagina. The ring is to remain in place continuously for three weeks, from the date of insertion. It is removed for a one-week break, during which a withdrawal bleeding (similar to your menstrual bleed) usually occurs. A new ring is inserted one week after the last ring was removed.
Q. What are the common side effects of using Ethinyl Estradiol + Etonogestrel?
The common side effects of using Ethinyl Estradiol + Etonogestrel are headache, vaginitis, mood changes, device-related events (expulsion, discomfort, and foreign body sensation), nausea, increased weight, breast pain, vaginal discharge, abdominal pain and acne. Most of these side effects are temporary, however if persists please consult with your doctor.
References
Written By:
Dr Advikka Ridhy
MBBS
RMO, Aster MIMS
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