The purpose of hormonal contraception is to prevent pregnancy. It does so by releasing synthetic versions of the natural hormones estrogen and progestin into a woman's body. These hormones mimic the hormone fluctuations that occur naturally during a woman's menstrual cycle, thus tricking her body into thinking she is continuously pregnant. However, these hormones can also have an effect on a woman's sexual desire. Some women may experience decreased libido while using hormonal birth control methods. This article will explain why this happens, how it affects different types of birth control, and what alternatives are available for those who want to avoid it.
Hormonal birth control works by altering levels of the female sex hormones estrogen and progesterone. Estrogen and progesterone are responsible for regulating a woman's menstrual cycle. When a woman ovulates, her ovaries release an egg which travels down her fallopian tube toward her uterus. If the egg is fertilized by sperm, it implants in the lining of the uterus and begins to grow into a fetus. If it is not fertilized, it passes out of the body as part of a woman's period. Hormonal contraceptives disrupt this process by introducing artificial versions of these hormones into a woman's system, stopping or reducing ovulation and thickening cervical mucus to prevent sperm from reaching an egg. This prevents pregnancy.
However, some women report feeling less aroused while taking hormonal contraception. Researchers believe that this is due to changes in brain chemistry caused by the introduction of synthetic hormones. The brain releases dopamine during sexual stimulation, which triggers feelings of pleasure. Hormonal contraception interferes with the production of dopamine, leading to reduced sexual response. Additionally, hormonal contraception can cause vaginal dryness, decreased lubrication, and lowered libido. These side effects may be temporary or permanent depending on the individual.
The severity of these side effects varies between different types of birth control. Injectable contraceptives such as Depo-Provera have been shown to have the strongest impact on libido. Patches and rings can also reduce libido, but not as much as injections. Combination pills containing estrogen and progestin tend to be more likely to cause libido loss than mini-pills, which only contain progestin. For those who are concerned about their sex drive, there are several alternative methods of birth control available:
1) Barrier methods such as condoms, diaphragms, and sponges provide physical protection against pregnancy without affecting hormone levels.
2) Fertility awareness methods involve tracking a woman's body temperature, basal body temperature, and cervical mucus to determine when she is most fertile.
3) Natural family planning uses abstinence, withdrawal, or other natural methods to prevent conception.
4) Abstinence involves refraining from sexual activity altogether.
In conclusion, some women experience reduced libido while using hormonal birth control due to changes in brain chemistry caused by the introduction of synthetic hormones. The severity of this effect depends on the type of contraceptive used. Alternative methods include barrier methods, fertility awareness methods, and natural family planning. Those concerned about this side effect should discuss it with their doctor before choosing a method.