Does women on birth control affect how attractive they find men?
Does women on birth control affect how attractive they find men?
Sources:
Yes, birth control can affect how attractive women find men. Andrew Huberman explains that women in the pre-ovulatory phase of their cycle typically rate men's odors and symmetrical physical features as more attractive. However, women taking oral contraception do not exhibit this preference. Essentially, oral contraceptives prevent women from experiencing the peaks in perceived attractiveness they might otherwise feel during certain phases of their menstrual cycle 1 2 3.
Menstrual Cycle Attraction
Andrew shares the results of two studies that explore how people rate the attractiveness of others based on their menstrual cycle. Men find women's odors particularly attractive during the pre-ovulatory phase of their cycle, and women rate men's odors and physical symmetry as more attractive during that time as well. These effects seem to be related to ovulation and are not present in women taking oral contraception.
Huberman Lab
The Science of Love, Desire and Attachment | Huberman Lab Podcast #59
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