Birth control is an empowering tool to help you take control of your reproductive health—but it may also come with a few unexpected changes. One question that could come up: Can birth control affect your libido or sexual function? The short answer? It’s possible, but the full story is more nuanced.
Let’s break it down.
What Is Sexual Function?
Sexual function refers to the physical and emotional factors that influence your sexual experiences. That includes everything from desire and arousal to the ability to orgasm comfortably.
When something disrupts that experience, it may fall under what’s known as “sexual dysfunction.”
What Is Sexual Dysfunction?
Sexual dysfunction is when your ability to enjoy sex is impacted—whether it’s a dip in desire or difficulty with arousal. It can look like:
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Low libido: Reduced sexual desire
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Arousal disorder: Difficulty becoming or staying aroused
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Orgasmic disorder: Trouble reaching orgasm
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Vaginal dryness: Discomfort due to lack of natural lubrication
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Dyspareunia: Pain during or after sex
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Erectile dysfunction: Difficulty maintaining an erection (for male partners)
Can Birth Control Cause Sexual Dysfunction?
A review of studies looking at birth control and sexual function found that birth control may slightly increase women’s risk of having sexual problems.
This doesn’t mean that birth control causes sexual problems. Factors like underlying health conditions or stress could also contribute to sexual problems. Side effects also vary from person to person. The overall likelihood of this happening is low, but if it does happen, it is worth a discussion with your OB/GYN because there are many birth control options.
A few things to keep in mind:
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Everyone’s body responds differently to hormones
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Stress, sleep, mental health, and existing medical conditions can all influence sexual function
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If you notice changes, you’re not alone—and there are options
How to Manage Birth Control-Related Sexual Side Effects
If you suspect your birth control is affecting your sex life, here are a few supportive next steps:
1. Talk to Your Doctor
Your OB/GYN can help identify what’s behind the shift in your sexual function and discuss other contraceptive options that might feel better for your body.
2. Try a Different Birth Control Method
Not all birth control impacts libido in the same way. If the pill isn’t working for you, ask about lower-dose options, non-hormonal methods, or alternatives like the IUD or ring.
3. Communicate With Your Partner
Being honest about what you’re experiencing can relieve pressure and open up new ways to explore intimacy together.
4. Support Your Body Holistically
Getting enough sleep, managing stress, moving your body, and nourishing yourself with nutrient-rich foods can all support hormonal balance—and your sex drive.
5. Consider Therapy
Working with a therapist can help you uncover emotional or psychological barriers to intimacy, improve communication, and reconnect with your body.
Shop the Article:
How to Start the Conversation
With Your Doctor:
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“Could my birth control be affecting my libido?”
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“Are there other options that might support my hormonal balance better?”
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“What treatments are available for sexual dysfunction?”
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“Are there lifestyle changes I can try before switching methods?”
With Your Partner:
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“I’ve noticed it’s harder for me to feel turned on and/or orgasm, and I want to share that with you so we can explore this together.”
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“I think my birth control might be affecting my arousal—I’m curious about switching to something else and would love your support.”
Key Takeaways
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Hormonal birth control may slightly impact your sexual desire, especially combined oral contraceptives.
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Not everyone experiences changes—and if you do, it doesn’t mean something’s wrong with you.
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You have options: from switching methods to exploring supportive lifestyle changes.
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Open conversations with your doctor and partner can help you navigate what’s best for your body and relationship.
Resources:
Minger Huang, MB, Guangqing Li, MB, Jiajun Liu, MB, Yingxiong Li, MB, Pei Du, MD. Is There an Association Between Contraception and Sexual Dysfunction in Women? A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis Based on Female Sexual Function Index, The Journal of Sexual Medicine, Volume 17, Issue 10, October 2020, Pages 1942–1955, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jsxm.2020.06.008
