Effect of oral contraceptives on the psyche and on sexuality
Nahrendorf, G.; Carol, W.; Klinger, G.
Zentralblatt für Gynakologie 100(10): 632-637
1978
ISSN/ISBN: 0044-4197 PMID: 79278 Document Number: 438546
Psychological and sexual effects of Ovosiston (0.08 mg mestranol and 2 mg chlormadinone acetate) and Non-Ovlon (0.05 mg ethinyl estradiol and 1.0 mg norethisterone acetate) were studied in 186 healthy women. Patients were interviewed immediately before beginning hormonal contraception, and after 6 months of treatment. Most (99) patients reported changes in mood, initiative, and elemental needs, including appetite, sleep, need for warmth, and sexual behavior. Changes in emotional pattern were reported by 73 patients. Alterations of sexual behavior were reported by 136 patients, and were considered improvements by 108. A statistically significant correlation between impairment of sexual function and the incidence of other undesirable side effects was noted. Negative suggestion from the experiences of other women and from the media seem to play a minor role in changes of sexual behavior. There is a clear relationship, however, between negative suggestion and the incidence of negative emotional changes. Clinical significance of these findings is discussed.