CONTRACEPTION AND ITS IMPACT ON FEMALE LIBIDO

Abstract

 This article aims to analyze the impacts of oral contraceptives on female libido and understand their side effects. A literature review was conducted by searching for full articles published in the last nine years that investigated the effects of using oral contraceptives on female libido and the body. Inclusion criteria encompassed full articles available for reading, published in the last nine years, information in medication leaflets, books, and related official websites. Excluded were publications that did not describe the effects of oral contraceptives on the female body, repeated publications, and reviews. Data collection allowed for the identification of relevant information, providing a critical and in-depth analysis of the impacts of using oral contraceptives on female libido. Based on the results obtained, it is possible to affirm that the prolonged use of these contraceptives can negatively affect female libido, leading to sexual dysfunctions and decreased sexual desire. Additionally, these contraceptives can entail side effects such as headaches, nausea, mood swings, and weight gain, which also influence women's sexual lives. Individual responses of women to the effects of oral contraceptives may vary. There are alternatives to these contraceptives, such as intrauterine devices (IUDs) and barrier contraceptive methods, which tend to have a less significant impact on female libido. The choice of a contraceptive method should be made with the assistance of a healthcare professional, considering the needs and preferences of the patient, as each method has specific advantages and disadvantages.