How Contraceptives Affect Female Sexual Health?

Contraceptives are important! From traditional methods like withdrawal and abstinence to modern advancements like hormonal implants and intrauterine devices (IUDs), contraceptives have evolved and transformed the way we approach sexual health and family planning. 

Today, contraceptive options are numerous and diverse, offering individuals greater control over their reproductive lives and the ability to make informed decisions about when and if to have children. Whether it's a simple barrier method like a condom or a long-term solution like sterilization, the use of contraceptives has become an integral part of sexual health for people of all ages and backgrounds. So, let's dive in and explore how different types of contraceptives can affect sexual health from a female point of view. But first, let's understand the basics.

What is Contraception?

Contraception meaning a method or device used to prevent pregnancy. Contraceptives work by either preventing the release of eggs (ovulation) or blocking the fertilization of the egg by sperm. There are various types of contraceptives available, including hormonal methods, non-hormonal methods, and natural family planning methods. The choice of contraceptive method depends on various factors, including personal preference, health, and lifestyle.

In modern times, many different types of contraceptives are available for women, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Further, we will explore how different contraceptive types affect the sexual health of a woman.

Contraception and sexual health

When used correctly and consistently, contraceptive methods can provide individuals with greater control over their sexual and reproductive health.

Here are some ways contraceptives can impact sexual health:

1. Prevent unintended pregnancy: Contraceptives are highly effective in preventing unintended pregnancy when used correctly and consistently. Unintended pregnancy can have significant health and social consequences, including increased maternal and infant morbidity and mortality risk, decreased educational and economic opportunities for women, and strained relationships and financial instability for families. Contraceptives can help individuals avoid unintended pregnancy, allowing them to plan and prepare for the timing and spacing of their children.

2. Reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs): Some contraceptives, such as condoms and dental dams, can help reduce the risk of STIs by preventing direct genital contact during sexual activity. Condoms are highly effective in preventing the transmission of HIV, gonorrhea, chlamydia, and other STIs, and can also provide protection against genital herpes and HPV. Using condoms consistently and correctly can help individuals protect their sexual health and the health of their partners.

3. Improve sexual satisfaction: Contraceptives can also contribute to sexual satisfaction by reducing anxiety and fear of unintended pregnancy and allowing individuals to be more relaxed and confident during sexual activity. Some hormonal contraceptives, such as the pill or patch, may also improve premenstrual syndrome (PMS) symptoms, such as bloating, cramping, and mood changes, which can enhance sexual well-being.

4. Manage menstrual cycle: Some contraceptives, such as hormonal contraceptives, can help manage menstrual cycle-related symptoms, such as heavy bleeding, painful cramps, and irregular periods. This can improve the overall sexual and reproductive health of individuals by reducing discomfort and enhancing the quality of life.

Contraceptives are a vital tool for women to take control of their sexual and reproductive health. There are many different types of contraceptives available, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. 

1. Hormonal contraceptives

Hormonal contraceptives work by altering a woman's hormonal balance, preventing ovulation, or making it difficult for sperm to reach the egg. There are several different types of hormonal contraceptives available, including:

• The pill: This is one of the most popular types of hormonal contraceptives. It contains synthetic versions of the hormones estrogen and progesterone, which prevent ovulation. It can also make the cervical mucus thicker, making it harder for sperm to reach the egg.
• The patch: This is another type of hormonal contraceptive that contains synthetic versions of estrogen and progesterone. It is a small patch that is applied to the skin and replaced once a week.
• The injection: This is a shot that is given every three months and contains a synthetic version of progesterone. It prevents ovulation and can also thicken the cervical mucus.
• The vaginal ring: This is a small ring that is inserted into the vagina and contains synthetic versions of estrogen and progesterone. It works by preventing ovulation and making the cervical mucus thicker.

Hormonal contraceptives can have a range of side effects. Some women may experience headaches, mood changes, breast tenderness, or weight gain. Hormonal contraceptives can also increase the risk of blood clots, especially in women who smoke or have other risk factors for blood clots.

2. Non-hormonal contraceptives

Non-hormonal contraceptives do not alter a woman's hormonal balance. Instead, they work by creating a physical barrier that prevents sperm from reaching the egg. There are several different types of non-hormonal contraceptives available, including:

• The copper IUD: This is a small device that is inserted into the uterus. It releases copper ions, which are toxic to sperm and prevent fertilization. It can also change the lining of the uterus, making it harder for a fertilized egg to implant.
• Condoms: This is a barrier method that the male partner wears during intercourse. It prevents sperm from entering the vagina and protects against sexually transmitted infections.
• Diaphragms and cervical caps: These are small devices that are inserted into the vagina and cover the cervix. They create a physical barrier that prevents sperm from reaching the egg.

Non-hormonal contraceptives do not have the same side effects as hormonal contraceptives. However, some women may experience irritation or discomfort from using a diaphragm or cervical cap. The copper IUD can also cause heavy periods or cramping in some women.

3. Natural family planning methods

Natural family planning methods are contraceptive methods that involve tracking the menstrual cycle to determine when a woman is most fertile and avoiding intercourse during that time. Here are some examples of natural family planning methods:

• Fertility awareness-based methods (FABMs): These methods involve tracking changes in cervical mucus, basal body temperature, and/or the position of the cervix to determine the fertile window of the menstrual cycle. By avoiding intercourse during the fertile window, couples can reduce the risk of unintended pregnancy.
• Standard days method: This method involves avoiding intercourse on days 8-19 of the menstrual cycle, as these are the days when a woman is most likely to ovulate. This method is most effective for women with regular menstrual cycles that are between 26 and 32 days long.
• Lactational amenorrhea method (LAM): This method involves using exclusive breastfeeding to delay ovulation and prevent pregnancy. LAM is most effective for women who are exclusively breastfeeding and have not yet resumed menstruation after giving birth.

It is important to note that natural family planning methods can be less effective than other contraceptive methods when not used correctly and consistently, and may not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Therefore, it is important for individuals to talk to their healthcare providers to determine the most appropriate contraceptive method for their health needs and lifestyle.