Contraceptive use is found to lower sex drive in humans. Mostly, hormonal contraceptives such as birth control pills, patches or injections are found to be the culprit. It can easily be avoided by switching to non-hormonal methods or adjusting the dosage with the help of your gynaecologist.
Can contraceptives lower libido or affect sexual function?
Dr Sanjay Erande, Sexologist, Director and Founder, Dr Erande’s Men and Women’s Clinic, Pune, Maharashtra says, “Yes, some contraceptives can impact sexual desire or satisfaction. Hormonal contraceptives, such as birth control pills, patches, or injections, can sometimes cause changes in libido. This happens because these methods alter hormone levels, which may affect sexual desire in some people. For some, these changes might lower sex drive, while for others, they might have little to no effect. If someone experiences a noticeable change in their sexual desire or satisfaction after starting a contraceptive, they should consult their doctor to explore alternatives.”
However, non-hormonal methods, like condoms or the Copper IUD (Copper T), typically do not directly affect libido. However, the sensation during sex may feel different when using condoms, which could influence sexual satisfaction.
What are the signs of contraceptive-related sexual issues?
Sexual side effects from contraception vary depending on what is used and how a patient responds to it. These may include low sexual desire. Contraception drugs that contain hormones, especially the combination ones taken orally, implants, and injections, decrease the desire for sex. This is usually due to hormonal fluctuation but more so from this decreased testosterone as mentioned previously by Dr Erande. Leaving chances for complications like the one cited below:
Vaginal dryness
Hormonal birth control may, in some cases, reduce the natural lubrication, which can make sex uncomfortable or even painful. Dryness can also cause discomfort or increase the risk of injury during sex.
Painful sex (dyspareunia)
Barriers, like condoms and diaphragms, and hormonal changes from hormonal birth control have, at times, been linked with discomfort during sex and are related to vaginal dryness or irritation.
Inability to orgasm and mood swings
Contraception might alter hormonal levels, which may affect sexual pleasure and the ability to orgasm due to more changes in blood flow and sensitivity in the genital area. Furthermore, hormonal contraception may also cause mood swings, anxiety, or depression in a few, which indirectly affects sex drive and sexual gratification.
Loss of sensitivity and allergic reactions
Hormonal methods sometimes decrease sensitivity or alter arousal patterns. This could be due to alterations in blood flow or hormonal levels. Latex allergy or allergic reactions to the materials used in condoms or spermicides cause irritation, itching, swelling, or discomfort, making sexual practice uncomfortable.
Changes in body
For instance, some types of hormonal birth control contribute to weight gain, break out into acne, and so on. This loss of self-esteem negatively impacts sexual desire or arousal.
Are there solutions for balancing contraceptive use and sexual health?
Yes, there are several strategies for balancing contraceptive use and maintaining sexual health at the same time. The key is to find a method that can serve both functions: act as a barrier method and be safe for sexual well-being. Dr Aatmik Jain, Psycho-sexologist, Genes Clinic, Arihant Hospital, and Motherhood Hospital, New Palasia, Indore, Madhya Pradesh says, “To communicate related to such issues, tell your doctor directly about the problems and preferences. And ask them for advice about contraception according to their needs.” Here are some possible solutions:
Try switching contraceptive method
In case hormonal contraceptives such as birth control pills, implants or injections are causing a reduction in libido try switching your contraceptive methods to non-hormonal ones. Non-hormonal contraceptives don’t contain any chemicals and are less likely to cause any changes in sexual desire.
Use lubricants
If hormonal contraceptives are causing vaginal dryness, using water-based lubricants may help make intercourse more comfortable. They reduce dryness and any pain and discomfort.
If hormonal contraceptives are causing side effects like lower sex drive, mood swings, changes in periods, etc. it is better to seek a professional’s advice. They would suggest adjusting the dosage or changing to a different alternative.
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