Are Oral Contraception and Feminine Sexual Dysfunction Connected?

Abstract

The effect of hormonal contraception (HC) on female sexuality has been discussed for a long time. Some studies suggest that negative experiences concerned to the use of HC are the main causes for changing or stopping the use of the HC. In this sense, the main objective of this article will be to review the literature published on the subject in the last 10 years and understand the possible relationship between the use of contraception and sexual dysfunction.
A literature search was performed between April 4 and 8, 2022, and in major research-based medicine databases, with publication date between January 2012 to March 2022, using the terms MeSH female sexual dysfunction, contraceptives, and hormonal contraceptives. The Consensus on Contraception (2020), the Gynecology Protocol within the scope of Primary Health Care (2019) and the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM -V 2013) were consulted.
Women who are medicated with HC show a lower frequency of sexual activity, less sexual stimulation and less sexual pleasure. They present lower vaginal lubrification and greater difficulty in achieving the orgasm. Within HC it is difficult to find out which method is best. From the existing evidence, it is hard to conclude about the better HC. There are studies that support that intra uterine device (IUD), the intrauterine system (IUS) and the transdermal patch have less impact on female sexuality.
Despite the difficulty in evaluating the FSD and the disparity of existing definitions, feminine sexual dysfunction is a problem that can significantly affect the quality of life of women and couples, and to which all physicians should be aware. It is important to adequate and adjust the advice to the expectations of each woman, in order to increase adherence to the method and satisfaction.