One of the things many OBs warn about when prescribing hormonal birth control pills is a chance that it can affect libido in a negative way. But, a new study, out this week, warns that the pill may be associated with female sexual dysfunction. Details ...
According to a German study, just published in The Journal of Sexual Medicine, women taking hormonal contraceptives (both oral and non-oral) were at highest risk for Female Sexual Dysfunction (FSD).
"FSD is a very common disorder, with an estimated prevalence of about two in five women having at least one sexual dysfunction, and the most common complaint appearing to be low desire," said the lead researcher, Dr. Lisa-Maria Wallwiener of the University of Heidelberg, Germany.
Of the 1,086 women studied, those on hormonal birth control were more likely to have one or more sexual dysfunctions (ranging from low libido to difficulty with orgasm and vaginal dryness). Those taking the pill were at an even higher risk.
"There are hundreds of millions of women, in particular young women, at the beginning of their sexual lives, who regularly use hormonal contraception for many years," said Dr. Irwin Goldstein, Editor-in-Chief of the Journal. "The irony is that these women are provided a medication that enables freedom from reproductive worries but these same women are not provided information that there are significant adverse sexual effects that may ensue."
Bottom line: The answer isn't to ditch your hormonal birth control method, but if you are experiencing any symptoms of FSD, speak up to your doctor about it! Don't be shy! Remember, there are many different varieties of hormonal birth controls, with varying hormone strengths. It might take a few months, but you can find one that prevents pregnancy without slashing your sexual desire. :)
Let's talk about the pill/birth control and libido. Any stories to share? Advice for others?
According to a German study, just published in The Journal of Sexual Medicine, women taking hormonal contraceptives (both oral and non-oral) were at highest risk for Female Sexual Dysfunction (FSD).
"FSD is a very common disorder, with an estimated prevalence of about two in five women having at least one sexual dysfunction, and the most common complaint appearing to be low desire," said the lead researcher, Dr. Lisa-Maria Wallwiener of the University of Heidelberg, Germany.
Of the 1,086 women studied, those on hormonal birth control were more likely to have one or more sexual dysfunctions (ranging from low libido to difficulty with orgasm and vaginal dryness). Those taking the pill were at an even higher risk.
"There are hundreds of millions of women, in particular young women, at the beginning of their sexual lives, who regularly use hormonal contraception for many years," said Dr. Irwin Goldstein, Editor-in-Chief of the Journal. "The irony is that these women are provided a medication that enables freedom from reproductive worries but these same women are not provided information that there are significant adverse sexual effects that may ensue."
Bottom line: The answer isn't to ditch your hormonal birth control method, but if you are experiencing any symptoms of FSD, speak up to your doctor about it! Don't be shy! Remember, there are many different varieties of hormonal birth controls, with varying hormone strengths. It might take a few months, but you can find one that prevents pregnancy without slashing your sexual desire. :)
Let's talk about the pill/birth control and libido. Any stories to share? Advice for others?
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