Birth control pills kill libido... irrevocably

Birth control pills are considered one of the symbols of women's sexual freedom. However, as studies have found, these drugs can have the opposite effect and significantly reduce sexual desire in women. And the worst thing is that this effect can be irreversible, not recovering even after stopping taking the pills.

Decreased libido is a known side effect of oral contraceptives. The medicine blocks the production of testosterone, which “manages” sexual desire in both sexes, and at the same time increases the production of the globulin SHBG that binds it. However, until recently it was believed that this was a temporary effect that would go away after stopping taking the pills.

However, research conducted at Boston University (USA, Massachusetts) showed that this is not the case. Doctors examined 125 young women who sought help due to problems in their sexual life. 62 of them were taking contraceptive medications at the time of visiting the doctor, another 40 had done so in the past, and only 23 patients had never taken such pills. Blood SHBG concentrations were measured in all study participants. Those who continued to take contraceptives had SHBG levels 7 times higher than normal, which is in line with expectations. However, unexpectedly, it was found that SHBG levels remained 3-4 times higher than normal in women who stopped taking birth control pills.

The UK's Planned Parenthood Association defends the effectiveness of contraceptives and says US research did not take into account many other factors, including psychological ones. In addition, women have other methods of contraception, for example, the IUD. However, the British Family Planning Association recognizes the problem and recommends that women see a doctor if they notice that they are no longer interested in intimate life.

Let us remind you that birth control pills can have other side effects. For example, doctor Karen Paizol from Emory University in Atlanta found that they can increase levels of aggressiveness.

In conclusion, I would like to note that birth control pills are not the only method of contraception. Women should discuss all options with their doctor and choose the one that is best for them and their health. And if a woman notices a decrease in sexual desire while taking birth control pills, then it is worth discussing this issue with a doctor and possibly reconsidering the method of contraception. It is important to remember that health and comfort in intimate life are key aspects of every woman’s life, and they should not suffer due to the wrong choice of contraception.