Can birth control pills affect sex drive?

Many women take birth control pills, which is a form of hormonal contraception taken orally to prevent pregnancy. They contain two hormones, estrogen and progestin, or sometimes just progestin. Birth control pills are effective in preventing pregnancy, but they may affect women in some ways. For instance, some may experience mood swings, anxiety, or depression as a side effect of hormonal contraception. Their sex drive may also be affected. For some women, hormonal contraceptives may have a positive impact on libido, while for others, it might have a negative influence. Read on to find out how birth control pills affect your sex drive.

How do birth control pills work?

Birth control pills primarily work by modifying the hormonal balance in a woman’s body to prevent pregnancy, says obstetrician and gynaecologist Dr Chetna Jain.

Here’s a breakdown of how they work –

1. Suppression of ovulation

Birth control pills contain hormones (estrogen and progestin or progestin alone) that suppress the natural hormonal signals from the pituitary gland, preventing the release of an egg (ovulation) from the ovaries.

2. Thickening of cervical mucus

The hormones in birth control pills also cause the cervical mucus to become thicker. This thicker mucus makes it more difficult for sperm to travel through the cervix and reach the egg.

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3. Thin uterine lining

Birth control pills alter the lining of the uterus, making it less receptive to a fertilised egg. If ovulation does occur and an egg is fertilised, the altered uterine lining makes it less likely for the fertilised egg to implant and develop, explains the expert.

By targeting these key processes in the reproductive system, birth control pills provide a highly effective method of preventing pregnancy when taken as directed.

How does birth control pills affect sex drive?

The relationship between birth control pills and sex drive can vary among individuals, and the effects are not universally predictable.

Here’s what can happen –

1. Increased libido

Some women may experience an increase in libido while taking birth control pills. This could be due to the stabilisation of hormonal levels, reduction in menstrual symptoms or an improvement in mood, says Dr Jain.

2. Decreased libido

On the flip side, some women may notice a decrease in libido as a side effect of hormonal contraception. This could be associated with the hormonal changes induced by the contraceptive, which might affect testosterone levels — the hormone linked to sexual desire.

Knowing that pregnancy is less likely can lead to increased sexual spontaneity and enjoyment, positively influencing libido. On the other hand, concerns about potential side effects or changes in mood can have the opposite effect.

It’s important to note that individual responses to birth control can vary, and there are numerous formulations of contraceptive pills with different hormone combinations. If a woman experiences changes in libido or sexual function after starting birth control, it’s better to discuss these concerns with a gynaecologist. They can help understand alternative contraceptive options or adjust the current prescription.

Could other factors contribute to decreased libido?

Libido can be influenced by a variety of factors, and it’s rarely solely attributed to birth control. Here are some other factors that can contribute to low libido –

• High levels of stress and fatigue can significantly impact sexual desire.
• Relationship dynamics, communication problems or unresolved conflicts can negatively affect sexual desire.
• Conditions such as depression, anxiety or other mental health issues can have a substantial impact on libido.
• Beyond birth control, fluctuations in hormones due to factors like pregnancy, breastfeeding or menopause can influence libido.
• Poor diet, lack of exercise, and unhealthy lifestyle habits can contribute to a decrease in overall well-being, affecting sexual desire.
• Certain medical conditions, such as hormonal imbalances, thyroid disorders, or chronic illnesses, can impact libido.
• Libido reduces with age. Factors like hormonal changes and life stage transitions can influence sexual desire.

If you’re concerned about a decrease in libido, open communication with your gynaecologist is important to identify potential causes and find appropriate solutions. They can help you explore whether birth control is a contributing factor or if other aspects of your life and health are influencing your sex drive.