Author: Meaghan Bachop

Reviewed by: Talani Newton, Sexologist

When it comes to choosing the right birth control, it can feel like all the options come with too much baggage! 

While birth control’s main purpose is to prevent pregnancies, it can also bring some wanted (or unwanted!) side effects, which may vary depending on the type of contraception you’re using. These can sometimes lead to changes in your libido or sex drive – talk about irony.

Research on the relationship between birth control and libido has been very limited, which has made it difficult to draw definitive conclusions about its effects. Some studies indicate a slight reduction in libido for hormonal contraceptive users, while others find no significant effect or even a positive impact. 

The wide range of variability in women’s experiences shows how important it is to listen to your body and work with your healthcare provider to find a birth control that works for you.

Your sex drive is influenced by a delicate balance of hormones, which can be affected by certain contraceptives.

Let’s break it down:

Some hormonal methods, such as the pill, can lower testosterone levels, which may reduce sex drive. In a study done of 3740 women, 43% experienced lower sexual desire. Hormonal imbalances might also affect arousal, natural lubrication, and overall sexual interest.

However, it’s not all bad news. Studies have also suggested that having a reliable birth control method can reduce anxiety about unplanned pregnancies, leading to a neutral or even positive impact on libido for some people.

Finally, your birth control method is only one piece of the puzzle. Many factors influence sex drive, including mental and emotional factors such as stress, what day it is in your menstrual cycle, your external environment, other medications you might be taking, type of birth control, as well as individual differences in genetics and hormone sensitivity.

Addressing Libido Changes

Pro tip: If you’ve recently switched birth control methods or are starting a new one, try keeping a journal to track any changes over the first few months. Noting shifts in your mood, sex drive, cycle, and overall well-being can help you spot patterns and compare how you feel now versus before. 

Troubleshooting Low Libido: Questions to ask yourself 

• Have you changed your birth control method recently?

• • • If yes, try tracking your libido (keeping track in your notes app or a daily journal) to help pinpoint whether your new birth control might be causing this change.

• Are you feeling stressed or overwhelmed?

• • • Stress, anxiety, and fatigue can play a big role in impacting your libido. Paying attention to your mental health may provide some insights into why you’re experiencing a shift in your sex drive.

• How are your lifestyle and physical health?

• • • Physical health plays a big role in sexual health. Things like diet, exercise, or sleep habits could affect your energy levels and sex drive.

• Are you taking any other medications?

• • Certain medications (like antidepressants or hormonal treatments) can influence libido. Checking in with your doctor is always a good idea to see if anything else might be a factor.

If you’re noticing changes in your sex drive, know that you’re not alone! Additionally, there are some steps you can take to get back on the right track:

• Communicate: Openly discuss how you’re feeling and any concerns about your sex drive if you have a partner.
• Talk to Your Healthcare Provider: They can help you evaluate whether switching methods, taking a supplemental hormone, or exploring hormone replacement therapy (HRT) to balance estrogen or testosterone levels is right for you. If hormonal birth control is affecting your libido, your provider may also recommend non-hormonal options like the copper IUD or barrier methods.
• Make Lifestyle Adjustments: Managing stress, exercising, and maintaining a balanced diet can help support hormonal balance.
• Explore Alternatives: Non-hormonal options like non-hormonal IUDs or barrier methods might work better for your body.

To recap, birth control can impact your sex drive, but it’s not something to fear. The effects vary from person to person, and there are ways to address any changes you might experience. 

Prioritize your sexual health, ask your healthcare provider questions, and remember that your experience is valid. 

You deserve a birth control method that works for your body and your lifestyle.