Etonogestrel-Ethinyl Estradiol

Medically Reviewed by Dr. Harshi Dhingra, M.D.

Last Reviewed: Jul 23, 2024

Common Questions


Common Questions about Etonogestrel - Ethinyl Estradiol (NuvaRing)


How effective is etonogestrel - ethinyl estradiol?

Etonogestrel - ethinyl estradiol contraceptive ring is 98% effective in preventing pregnancy when it is used as directed. Only 1 or 2 women out of every 100 get pregnant after using the vaginal ring perfectly for a year. The contraceptive ring may be less effective with imperfect use (if you leave it out for more than 3 hours, leave it in for more than 4 weeks, or have a ring-free period of more than one week).



Do you get your period on etonogestrel - ethinyl estradiol vaginal ring?

You should get withdrawal bleeding (a menstrual period) 2-3 days after you remove the vaginal ring. If you do not get your period, you could be pregnant. 



When should I first insert NuvaRing (etonogestrel - ethinyl estradiol)?

Your doctor will tell you when to first insert NuvaRing (etonogestrel - ethinyl estradiol). It depends on whether you’ve used birth control before and the type of birth control method you used. If you have not used hormonal birth control in the previous cycle, you should insert NuvaRing on the first day of menstrual bleeding.



Can I use tampons with NuvaRing?

Yes, you can use tampons with NuvaRing (etonogestrel - ethinyl estradiol). However, make sure you don’t displace the vaginal ring when removing the tampon. If this occurs, reinsert the contraceptive ring within 3 hours. If more than 3 hours have passed, insert a new contraceptive ring and remove it on the originally scheduled day. You may need a backup method of contraception if you leave the contraceptive ring out for more than 3 hours.



Will my partner feel the NuvaRing?

Most partners do not feel the vaginal ring. However, some people may feel it during sex, but it isn’t usually a problem. 



Am I protected from pregnancy during the week when NuvaRing is out?

Yes, you remain protected from pregnancy during the one-week period when the NuvaRing is out. You should get your menstrual period during this time. Use the NuvaRing as directed to maintain contraceptive efficacy.



What is the price of etonogestrel - ethinyl estradiol without insurance?

Without insurance, etonogestrel - ethinyl estradiol can be as high as $219.99, but with a free BuzzRx prescription discount coupon, you could pay as low as $64.33 for the most common version of this medication. Use the BuzzRx drug price look-up tool to find the lowest discounted price, and be sure to enter the correct dosage, form, and quantity for the most accurate pricing. While generics tend to have the best savings, you can also use your BuzzRx card and coupons to purchase brand-name versions. It never hurts to ask your pharmacist to try BuzzRx when filling or refilling any of your prescription drugs—whether you have insurance or not.



What is the price of etonogestrel - ethinyl estradiol with insurance?

Ask your pharmacist or insurance provider for your copay price on etonogestrel - ethinyl estradiol—Copay amounts vary depending on the type of insurance plan you have and if there is a deductible to reach before prescription drug coverage begins.

You could save up to 80% on your prescription medication with a free BuzzRx discount coupon for etonogestrel - ethinyl estradiol. When using the BuzzRx lookup tool to find the price of your medicine, be sure to enter the correct dosage, form, and quantity to receive the most accurate discounted pricing. It never hurts to ask your pharmacist to try BuzzRx when filling or refilling any of your prescriptions—whether you have insurance or not.