The combined contraceptive vaginal ring (NuvaRing) and endometrial histology
Johan Bulten1, Johanna Grefte, Bert Siebers
1Department of Pathology, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Centre, PO Box 9101, 6500 HB Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
Abstract:
We investigated the effects of NuvaRing on endometrial histology in a 2-year open-label, multicenter trial in 103 premenopausal women aged 18-35 years. Subjects received 26 cycles of treatment, each comprising 3 weeks of ring use followed by a 1-week ring-free period. Endometrial biopsies were taken at baseline, and at cycles 13 (month 12) and 26 (month 24). Normal biopsy results were obtained in all subjects after 24 months of NuvaRing treatment. Atrophic or inactive endometrium and secretory changes were present in the majority of the biopsies after 1 year and 2 years of treatment with the vaginal ring. It was concluded that long-term use of NuvaRing has no adverse effects on endometrial histology.
Related Concept Videos
Histology of the Uterus
The endometrium is the...
Intrauterine Drug Delivery Systems
Birth Control Methods
Vagina
Hormonal Regulation of the Menstrual Cycle
At puberty, GnRH begins a pulsatile release pattern, which triggers the anterior pituitary gland to secrete follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH). The frequency and amplitude of GnRH pulses vary across the menstrual cycle, with faster pulses favoring LH release and slower pulses favoring FSH release.
Menses Phase
When fertilization does not occur, the corpus luteum deteriorates, causing a significant drop in the levels of estrogen and progesterone in the body. This hormonal decrease triggers the release of prostaglandins, which cause the uterine...


