Erschienen in:
25.10.2018 | Female Sexual Dysfunction and Disorders (T Lorenz and R Nappi, Section Editors)
Hormonal Contraception and Sexuality
verfasst von:
Santiago Palacios, Mariella Lilue
Erschienen in:
Current Sexual Health Reports
|
Ausgabe 4/2018
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Abstract
Purpose of Review
The purpose of this review is to discuss controversies about hormonal contraception (HC) and sexuality, as well as to analyze sexual function according to the type of HC.
Recent Findings
HC has negative effects on sexual desire and lubrication, and may contribute to increased vestibular pain. Although there are several different types of HC, all alter the androgenic environment, which may have negative effects on sexual function. On the other hand, there may be reasons to support the use of HCs, and there can be improvement in sexuality associated with their use. For instance, there may be benefits for benign gynecological disorders such as endometriosis, menorrhagia, and dysmenorrhea. In addition, owing their contraceptive capacity, HC helps alleviate the fear of pregnancy, increasing the pleasure of the sexual experience. Another important aspect may be the relationship between hormonal contraceptives, body image and appearance, self-esteem, and sexuality.
Summary
There is sufficient evidence that HC may have both a positive and a negative impact on female sexuality. Additional research is needed on several key issues: searching for an HC without negative effects on sexuality, or with as little effect as possible; detecting women at risk of sexual dysfunction following initiation of HC; and finally, the possibility of adding androgens to HCs to minimize sexual side effects.