New research is pointing to a possible link between contraception use and decreased sex drive. The Indiana University study examined the negative effects of contraception on things like arousal, lubrication, and orgasm. Involved were 1,101 sexually active women split into groups of hormonal contraception use (the pill, patch, ring or shot) and non-hormonal use (condom, diaphragm, cervical cap, or withdrawal). The evidence revealed that women taking hormonal contraception experienced less arousal, fewer orgasms, difficulties with lubrication, decreased sexual pleasure, and less frequent sex compared to women using barrier methods.

A major reason for this low sex drive is due to hormonal levels in each contraceptive method.  When a woman takes “the pill”, the liver starts pumping out sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) which traps most of a woman’s testosterone, leaving low T levels to which directly incite sex drive.

Throughout the menstrual cycle, these hormonal fluctuations can alter the facial appearance of a woman, body odor, and vocal pitch. During ovulation, these physical changes make her more attractive to a man due to the indication of fertility. But since the pill prevents ovulation, women on these hormonal drugs miss out on the peak period where they radiate of sex appeal and make them more attractive towards men.

According to Dr. Goldstein, a professor of obstetrics and gynecology at NYU, “What distinguishes one pill from another is the amount of estrogen it contains and the type of progesterone that it’s married to. It’s a matter of finding the combination that works best for you,” in order to minimize decreased sexual pleasure and inability to climax.

Hormonal pills have scientific evidence that the pill reduces the risk of getting ovarian cancer, developing anemia, and reduces symptoms of PMS. However, this very popular method of contraception comes with an endless list of side effects including nausea, breast tenderness, risk of heart attack, stroke, blood clots, high blood pressure, liver tumors, and gallstones.

So, if the pill is dampening your sex drive, it may be time to end your relationship with oral contraceptives and avoid its complications by switching to condoms. Contraception pills that dull your libido defeat the purpose of taking it in the first place.

ONE Condoms believes in the practice of safe sex and the protection of your overall sexual health.

What are you personal experiences with contraception and its effect on your libido?