2012/07/13 by Lara J. Burrows, Maureen Basha, Andrew T. Goldstein · 251 citations
Medicine · #Decreased Libido #Developed country #Endocrinology #Family planning #Gender studies #Gynecology #Hormonal contraception #Hormone #Human sexuality #Internal medicine #Libido #Medicine #Menstrual Health and Disorders #Obstetrics #Population #Psychiatry #Reproductive Health and Contraception #Reproductive health #Research methodology #Sexual desire #Sexual dysfunction #Sexual function #Sexual function and dysfunction studies
paper · doi:10.1111/j.1743-6109.2012.02848.x
published in The Journal of Sexual Medicine 9(9), 2213-2223 (Elsevier BV)
openalex publication_date 2012/07/13 · openalex created_date 2025/10/10 · openalex updated_date 2026/07/30
INTRODUCTION: Hormonal contraceptives can influence female sexual function. AIM: The goal of this article was to provide a comprehensive review of the effects that various hormonal contraceptives may have on female sexual function. METHODS: A Medline search was conducted using several terms related to and including the terms contraception, oral contraceptive, female sexual function, dyspareunia, libido, and sexual desire. RESULTS: A thorough review of the effects of hormonal contraceptives on female sexual function. CONCLUSIONS: The sexual side effects of hormonal contraceptives are not well studied, particularly with regard to impact on libido. There appears to be mixed effects on libido, with a small percentage of women experiencing an increase or a decrease, and the majority being unaffected. Healthcare providers must be aware that hormonal contraceptive can have negative effects on female sexuality so they can counsel and care for their patients appropriately.