Low libido on the pill
DEAR DR MITCHELL,
I am a 26-year-old woman and l’ve been married almost two years. I have been taking the Minigynon contraceptive for about a year now and I’ve noticed that I have no desire for sex since I started taking it. Can you please explain the reason for this and advise me what to?
The use of hormonal contraception can cause a decrease in sexual drive. Minigynon is a low-dose combined oral contraceptive containing 30 micrograms of oestrogen. It is commonly used, but you can actually go on a lower-dose preparation which contains less oestrogen and your sex drive might increase with the lower dose of hormones. There are preparations on the market containing oestrogen as low as 15 micrograms. Preparations containing 20 micrograms of oestrogen are widely available.
If your sex drive does not improve, then you should consider using a non-hormonal method of contraception to see if this makes a difference. An intrauterine contraceptive device such as the copper T38 can be inserted at the end of a menstrual period and left in place for up to 10 years. It can be removed when you plan to become pregnant. It is a safe option for contraception as it has no hormones, so it does not interfere with your cycle or hormonal balance.
The use of the female or male condom is also an option that can be explored after discontinuing the oral contraceptive pill.
If your sex drive increases, then you can definitely attribute the low sex drive that you currently experience to the contraceptive pill usage. If there is no change in your feelings despite discontinuing the hormonal contraception, then you need to go in with your partner for counselling.
The low sexual drive might be due to relationship issues or your partner’s approach to sexual activity. Both of you should see a sex therapist who can help you to resolve any possible issues that might be contributing to this.
Best wishes.
Dr Sharmaine Mitchell is an obstetrician and gynaecologist. Send questions via e-mail to allwoman@jamaicaobserver.com; write to All Woman, 40-42 1/2 Beechwood Ave, Kingston 5; or fax to 968-2025. All responses are published. Dr Mitchell cannot provide personal responses.
DISCLAIMER:
The contents of this article are for informational purposes only and must not be relied upon as an alternative to medical advice or treatment from your own doctor.
