Key takeaways
Etonogestrel/ethinyl estradiol (NuvaRing) and levonorgestrel (Kyleena) are both medications used to prevent pregnancy, but they belong to different drug classes and have distinct methods of administration. NuvaRing is a combined contraceptive containing both progestin and estrogen, and it is used vaginally. It is inserted for three weeks and then removed for one week. Kyleena, on the other hand, is a progestin-only intrauterine device (IUD) that is placed in the uterus by a healthcare professional and can prevent pregnancy for up to five years. While NuvaRing is available in both brand-name and generic forms, Kyleena is only available as a brand-name product. Common side effects of NuvaRing include headaches and vaginal irritation, whereas Kyleena may cause acne and stomach cramps. Additionally, NuvaRing users need to be cautious about blood clots, especially if they smoke or are over 35, while Kyleena users should be aware of the risk of ectopic pregnancy and ovarian cysts. Both medications require a prescription, but their administration and hormone content differ significantly.
