J Obstet Gynaecol India 2014 Dec;64(6):409-16. doi: 10.1007/s13224-014-0559-7
Multicenter study of contraceptive vaginal ring (NuvaRing(®)) in normal daily practice in Indian women
Pandit SN, Chauhan AR, Anagani M, Reddy S, Birla A and Ray SK
Abstract
Objective: This was the first Indian multicenter study at six specialty hospitals, to assess the real-life usage of the vaginal ring in daily clinical practice.
Methods: This open-label, prospective, single-arm, nonrandomized, interventional study enrolled 252 women aged >18 years, seeking contraception with no contraindications to the use of combined hormonal contraceptive. Women were provided the ring with a monthly follow-up schedule for three cycles. Cycle control, acceptability, tolerability, and safety assessments were recorded at each visit.
Results: Regular menstrual bleeding was reported by 76.2 % (192/252) at baseline. In study completers, regular bleeding was seen in 94.1 % (192/204), 97.5 % (199/204), and 98 % (200/204) in the 1st, the 2nd, and the 3rd cycles, respectively. Most (94.2 % [195/207]) women were very satisfied or satisfied with the ring, and 93.2 % (193/207) would recommend it to others. No pregnancies or serious adverse events were reported.
Conclusions: The study demonstrated that NuvaRing(®) is a highly effective contraceptive method with an excellent cycle control. It is well tolerated and accepted by Indian women.
Comment: It is often argued that vaginal methods of family planning, like the contraceptive vaginal ring, are not suitable for women in low income countries. This real life study shows that the product are very well tolerated and that the excellent cycle control can even be an extra advantage in certain cultures. (HMV)
