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APHA Scientific Session and Event Listing

Recorded presentation

Cynthia A. Graham, PhD, Oxford Doctoral Course in Clinical Psychology, Oxford University, Isis Education Centre, Warneford Hospital, Headington, Oxford, OX3 7JX, United Kingdom, 01865 226431, cygraham@indiana.edu

Since oral contraceptives (OCs) first became available more than 40 years ago, there has been remarkably little attention paid to their possible effects, either positive or negative, on women's sexual pleasure. This is in contrast with research on the development and acceptability of a male contraceptive pill, where maintaining sexual functioning has been a primary concern. The goals of this talk are to: review the literature on the impact of OCs on sexual interest, present findings from our research, and make recommendations for future studies in this area. Our research shows that a significant minority of women experience reduced sexual interest and enjoyment whilst taking the pill and that these changes may be a significant reason why some women discontinue the method. However, we know very little about possible predictors of, or mechanisms underlying, such effects. Although decreased levels of testosterone induced by OCs may be involved, a recent prospective study did not show any clear association between changes in testosterone and experience of sexual side effects. Other changes related to use of OCs such as decreased fear of pregnancy, reduced pain and bleeding may positively impact on a woman's sexual experience. There is a need for larger-scale studies that explore a wide range of potential predictors of positive and negative reactions to OCs. Once such predictors are identified, smaller-scale, controlled studies that incorporate assessment of hormones could be more informative.

Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of this session, the participant (learner) in this session will be able to

• Discuss the research findings on the effects of oral contraceptives on women's sexuality.
• Identify possible predictors of the effects of oral contraceptives on sexual interest.
• List specific recommendations for future studies on the effects of oral contraceptives on sexuality.

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

Any relevant financial relationships? No

Recorded presentation