European Journal of Psychotraumatology (Sep 2012)
Investigating the effects of hormonal contraceptive use on mood and sexuality
Abstract
Rationale : Hormonal contraception has been the subject of numerous research studies. Despite the fact pharmaceutical companies advertise the physical side effects of the medication both positive (e.g. improved acne, reduced ovarian cancer risk) and negative (e.g. increased risk of stroke, weight gain), the knowledge of the potential psychological effects are often based on Internet searches or less than credible resources. The range of empirical support for the effects of the medications on mood has been beneficial including improved mood to negative such as mental health distress. Aside from psychological research, sexual side effects including reduced libido and reduced sexual responsiveness have also been reported. The majority of the research on hormonal contraceptives has been conducted in a clinical setting. It is unclear if the preceding findings would be found with females self-selecting to use the medication as opposed to paid study participants in a clinical setting. Methods : In order to gain a greater understanding of the relationship between hormonal contraceptive usage and affect, an Internet survey with females of childbearing age (age range: 17–48, N=379) was conducted to examining psychological distress (stress, anxiety, depression, and negative mood), improved mood (life satisfaction, happiness, and positive mood), and sexuality (sexual frequency and sexual satisfaction). Results : Contrary to previous findings, results from this correlational study suggest no effects of hormonal contraceptive use on psychological distress or mood. Females using hormonal contraception did, however, report higher scores for sexual satisfaction and increased sexual activity. Conclusions : While this investigation was not experimental and, therefore, causation cannot be determined, females using hormonal contraception may be relieved that this research suggests that these drugs do not lead to psychologically harmful side effects and sexuality may be improved with usage. More research is needed to confirm these findings.
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