NuvaRing and Ortho Evra are two hormone-based contraceptive methods that do not require taking a pill each day. Both synthetic estrogen and progestin are embedded in either a 2-inch-diameter soft and transparent vaginal ring (NuvaRing) or a beige matchbook-size transdermal patch (Ortho Evra), as shown in I Figure 10.1.
How the Ring and Patch Work
Both NuvaRing and Ortho Evra release the hormones embedded in them through the vaginal lining or skin into the bloodstream. The hormones then work in the same way as the pill to prevent pregnancy. Women using the ring report fewer side effects than do oral contraceptive users (Kerns & Darney, 2011).