A new study from researchers at the University of Hiedelburg in Germany suggests that women who take the birth control pill may be at a greater risk to suffer such sexual dysfunctions as lower sex drive and decreased arousal.
For the study, Dr. Lisa-Maria Wallwiener studied roughly 1000 female medical students, finding that those who took hormone based oral contraceptives had higher rates of sexual dysfunction than those who used condoms, diaphragms or no contraception at all.
"Sexual problems can have a negative impact on both quality of life and emotional well-being, regardless of age," Wallwiener said. "FSD (female sexual dysfunction) is a very common disorder, with an estimated prevalence of about two in five women having at least one sexual dysfunction, and the most common complaint appearing to be low desire."
However, Wallwiener did find several other key factors that contributed to increased FSD, including stress, pregnancy, smoking, relationship status, and a desire for children.
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June 05, 2026 16:18 ET A busy week for economic news flow saw a slew of reports being released that reflected the trends in the U.S. labor market. In Europe, economic growth and inflation data gained attention as the European Central Bank and Bank of England head for policy session later in the month. In Asia, the monetary policy session of the Indian central bank was in focus as the country, a major oil importer, reels under the pressures of a weaker rupee and rising inflation.