Effects of combined oral contraceptives on female sexuality: continuing the conversation

Gabidullina R.I.; Galimyanova E.I.; Salakhova R.R.

doi:https://doi.org/10.17116/repro20212705154

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OBJECTIVE

Examine the impact of combined oral contraceptive on female sexual function.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The article provides a literature review based on the results of electronic databases such as PubMed, Cochrane Library, eLibrary, MEDLINE, EMBASE.

RESULTS

Appearance of the first contraceptive pill marked the beginning of a new era for humanity and had a very serious social, economic and political impact on the role and status of woman in modern society. At the same time, it should be noted that existing knowledge about the effect of combined oral contraceptives (COCs) on female sexuality is insufficient, contradictory and dualistic, as well as the lack of sufficient number of studies based on the principles of evidence-based medicine. Hormonal contraceptives directly affect the hormonal level involved in female sexual function and, possibly, mood. However, the pathophysiological mechanisms leading to decreased female sexuality remain unclear. Based on the results of this review one of preferred alternative contraceptive option is COC containing estradiol valerate/dienogest (E₂V/DNG). Most of conducted studies (randomized, multicenter and prospective, real practice) have shown a positive effect of E₂V/DNG on female sexual function, as well as a number of positive therapeutic effects.

CONCLUSION

Combined oral contraceptives undoubtedly have an effect on female sexual function. Competently and correctly selected contraception is not the only guarantee of high patient compliance and decrease of socio-economic problems but, probably, it also can improve the quality of life and sexual health of woman, which requires further research in this direction.

Keywords:

female sexuality

combined oral contraceptives

estradiol valerate/dienogest

Authors:

Gabidullina R.I.

Kazan State Medical University

Galimyanova E.I.

Kazan State Medical University

Salakhova R.R.

City Clinical Hospital No. 7

Received:

18.08.2021

Accepted:

03.09.2021

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