Title: Impact of common contraceptive methods on quality of life and sexual function in Hong Kong Chinese women.

POPLINE Document Number: 276726

Author(s):

Li RH
Lo SS
Teh DK
Tong NC
Tsui MH

Source citation:

Contraception, 2004;70:474-482.

Abstract:

The combined oral contraceptive (COC) pills, injectables, intrauterine contraceptive device (IUCD) and female sterilization are the most common contraceptive methods used by women. Women’s choice, compliance and satisfaction with specific contraceptive methods are influenced by any impact of the method on their quality of life and sexual function. Anxiety regarding possible adverse effects of the contraceptive methods on their quality of life and sexual function is one of the common concerns. The aim of this prospective observational study was to determine the impact of the above-mentioned contraceptive methods on the quality of life and sexual function of the users. A sample of 361 Hong Kong Chinese women who were first-time users of the following contraceptive methods completed the study: COC pills (n =87), injectables (n =67), IUCD (n =96) and female sterilization (n =111). Quality of life and sexual function of the subjects were assessed before and 3–4 months after use of the method by a standardized questionnaire. The questions were adopted from the validated Chinese versions of the World Health Organization Quality of Life (WHOQOL) questionnaire and the Derogatis Sexual Functioning Inventory (DSFI). In the female sterilization group, we found a significantly higher score for sexual satisfaction (p=.004) and sexual drive (p=.003) 3–4 months after sterilization, as well as an improved WHOQOL social domain score (p=.009). However, the other DSFI subscale scores and WHOQOL domain scores were not significantly different (p>.05). No significant difference was demonstrated in all the WHOQOL domain scores and DSFI subscale scores after use of COC pills, injectables and IUCD (p>.05). We conclude that the COC pills, injectables, IUCD and female sterilization all do not have significant adverse impact on quality of life and sexual function. After female sterilization, there is a significant improvement in sexual satisfaction and sexual drive. (author's)

Keywords:

Hong Kong
Research Report
Clinical Research
KAP Surveys
Women in Development
Quality of Life
Sexuality
Contraceptive Methods Chosen
Satisfaction
Oral Contraceptives, Combined
Injectables
Female Sterilization
Developed Countries
Asia, Eastern
Asia
Research Methodology
Surveys
Sampling Studies
Studies
Economic Development
Economic Factors
Social Welfare
Personality
Psychological Factors
Behavior
Contraceptive Usage
Contraception
Family Planning
Oral Contraceptives
Contraceptive Methods
Sterilization, Sexual