On Monday March 2, the ANSM recalled certain batches of Etoring and Etonogestrel / ethinylestradiol Mylan contraceptive vaginal rings from pharmacies. The reason: a risk of rupture linked to a manufacturing defect.
Since 2012 and the “pill crisis”, contraceptive methods have become more and more diversified in France. Today, besides the condom of course, more and more women are abandoning the pill to turn to the IUD, the implant or the vaginal ring. The latter is a flexible porous plastic ring that contains a combination of hormones (estrogen and progestogen). The woman inserts it deep in her vagina and, with body heat, hormones diffuse through the vaginal wall and pass into the blood. Monday, March 2, the National Medicines Safety Agency (ANSM) unfortunately had to recall certain batches of Etoring and Etonogestrel / ethinylestradiol Mylan contraceptive vaginal rings from pharmacies. In question: an increase in the number of rupture cases reported in France and Europe, “probably related to a quality defect”, explains the ANSM. However, if the ring breaks, contraceptive effectiveness may decrease and pregnancy may occur. The Nuvaring ring is not affected.
The manufacturing laboratory has implemented corrective measures. “Reports will be closely monitored by ANSM during the first weeks of availability of new batches to ensure that the corrections made to the manufacturing process are effective.”, explains the health agency on its site.
If you wear a contraceptive ring, beware if you experience vaginal discomfort, pinching-like sensations, bleeding, or pain during intercourse. You will also be able to realize a possible rupture if, on palpation, the round shape of the ring is no longer perceptible.
While waiting for a medical consultation, it is advisable to use a condom
Most of the time, when a ring breaks, it is naturally expelled outside the vagina. However, in case it is still in place, it is better to remove it so as not to feel any discomfort. If your ring is broken, make an appointment as soon as possible with a specialist to discuss an alternative contraceptive method to put in place. If you had sexual intercourse in the five days preceding the rupture, emergency contraception should be considered. At last, “do not use any other Etoring or Etonogestrel/ethinylestradiol Mylan rings affected by the batch recall or which you may have in advance due to a similar risk of rupture”insists the ANSM.
However, if no breakage is suspected or observed, you can keep your ring until the end of the cycle. Pending a medical consultation, however, it is advisable to use a male condom during intercourse, for greater security.
To view the list of recalled lots, Click here. If you are affected by a broken ring, you can report it on the side effect reporting portal: signalement-sante.gouv.fr .
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