A Study of the Impact of the Commonly Used Female Contraceptive Methods in Egypt on Female Sexual Function

Temporary methods of female contraception are commonly practiced in Egypt, but an increased total fertility rate was recently reported. Impaired female sexual function (FSF) due to contraceptive use can be a reason for irregular use/discontinuation. This study aimed at identifying the type(s) of the commonly used contraceptive method(s) in Egypt that can impair FSF. The sexual function of women on some form of temporary contraceptive was compared to that of women not using contraceptives. All participants answered the Arabic translation of the 19-item Female Sexual Function Index questionnaire. Furthermore, participants on contraceptives answered a global question: Did the use of the contraceptive impact your sexual function? Participants on contraceptives were subgrouped into Copper-T intrauterine devices (IUDs), progestin injectable (medroxyprogesterone 400 mg), combined oral pills (COP; 30 µg ethinylestradiol and 150 µg levonorgestrel), and progestin-only pills (POP; 750 µg levonorgestrel). According to this study, neither the IUDs nor the COP impaired FSF. However, the progestin-only contraceptives were associated with impairment of FSF; the injectable was worse than the POP. Accordingly, counseling about the potential sexual risks of the available contraceptive methods is recommended. Impaired FSF due to contraceptive use can be addressed by a trial of an alternative method to avoid discontinuation.