Ethinyl estradiol and etonogestrel Side Effects

Please note - some side effects for Ethinyl estradiol and etonogestrel may not be reported. Always consult your doctor or healthcare specialist for medical advice. You may also report side effects to the FDA.

Side Effects by Body System - for Healthcare Professionals

Applies to: vaginal ring

Genitourinary

Genitourinary side effects reported by 5% to 14% of women include vaginitis and leukorrhea. The most common events leading to discontinuation in 1% to 2.5% of women include foreign body sensation, coital problems, and device expulsion. Vaginal/cervical erosion or ulceration in women using ethinyl estradiol and etonogestrel vaginal ring has been rarely reported. In some cases, the ring adhered to vaginal tissue, necessitating removal by a healthcare provider. There have been rare reports of inadvertent insertions of ethinyl estradiol and etonogestrel vaginal ring into the urinary bladder, which required cystoscopic removal. Healthcare providers should assess for ring insertion into the urinary bladder in ethinyl estradiol and etonogestrel vaginal ring users who present with persistent urinary symptoms and are unable to locate the ring.

Respiratory

Respiratory side effects reported by 5% to 14% of women include upper respiratory tract infection and sinusitis.

Gastrointestinal

Gastrointestinal side effects reported by 5% to 14% of women include nausea. Combination contraceptives have been associated with reports of abdominal cramping, bloating, and vomiting.

General

General side effects reported by 5% to 14% of women include weight gain and headache. The most common adverse effect leading to discontinuation in 1% to 2.5% of women was emotional lability and weight gain.

Hematologic

Hematologic side effects associated with the use of combination hormonal contraceptives include thromboembolic disorders.

Cardiovascular

Cardiovascular side effects reported with the use of combination hormonal contraceptives include hypertension and myocardial infarction.

Hepatic

Hepatic side effects reported with the use of combination hormonal contraceptives include hepatic adenomas and benign liver tumors.

Ocular

Ocular side effects reported with the use of combination hormonal contraceptives include retinal thrombosis, changes in corneal curvature (steepening), and intolerance to contact lenses.

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