A recent study revealed that women perceive men’s faces differently if they use contraceptives, particularly hormonal ones. The study conducted at the University of St.

Andrews involved 58 women who were shown photographs of men who were either using hormonal or non-hormonal contraceptives. The results found that women preferred the facial features of men who were using non-hormonal contraceptives, suggesting that men’s appearance changes based on contraceptive use.

What are hormonal contraceptives?

Hormonal contraceptives are a type of birth control that use synthetic hormones to prevent pregnancy. These hormones are often in the form of pills, patches, injections, or intrauterine devices (IUDs).

Hormones used in these types of contraceptives include progestin, estrogen, or a combination of both.

How do hormonal contraceptives affect men’s appearance?

The study found that hormonal contraceptives can change a man’s appearance in several ways.

For example, men who use hormonal contraceptives were perceived to have less masculine facial features such as a narrower jawline and a less prominent brow ridge. These features are often associated with higher levels of testosterone, which is needed for male sexual development.

Furthermore, men who use hormonal contraceptives were perceived to have less facial hair, which is another secondary sex characteristic associated with masculinity.

The study also found that women perceived men who use non-hormonal contraceptives as more attractive and healthier-looking overall.

Why is this study important?

The study is important because it sheds light on how hormonal contraceptives can impact a man’s appearance and possibly his mate choice.

It also opens up discussions about how hormonal contraceptives could impact the evolution of human sexual traits. Furthermore, the findings suggest that women may be more attracted to men who exhibit higher levels of testosterone, which has implications for mate choice and sexual selection.

What are the limitations of the study?

While the study is important, it has a few limitations. For example, the study only involved 58 women, which is a relatively small sample size.

Additionally, the study only looked at facial features and did not examine other physical traits that may be impacted by hormonal contraceptives. Therefore, more research is needed to confirm these findings and to explore this topic more extensively.

What are the implications of these findings?

The findings have implications regarding mate choice and sexual selection. The study suggests that men who use hormonal contraceptives may be perceived as less attractive and healthy, which could impact their mating success.

Furthermore, the study implies that women may be more attracted to men who exhibit more masculine facial features and higher levels of testosterone.

Should men stop using hormonal contraceptives?

No, men should not stop using hormonal contraceptives solely based on the findings of this study.

Hormonal contraceptives can be an effective method of preventing unintended pregnancies and should continue to be used as directed by a healthcare professional.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the study conducted at the University of St. Andrews suggests that hormonal contraceptives can impact a man’s appearance, specifically his facial features.

Women perceived men who use non-hormonal contraceptives as more attractive and healthier-looking overall. The findings have implications for mate choice and sexual selection, suggesting that women may be more attracted to men who exhibit more masculine features and higher levels of testosterone.