Shifting Trends in Contraception and Sexual Health in the Netherlands
Recent data from the Netherlands indicates notable changes in both contraceptive practices among women and sexual behaviors among men. A decline in pill usage among women is coinciding with an increase in risky sexual behavior among men, raising public health concerns. These trends are being observed alongside a broader increase in obesity rates within the country.
Decline in Pill Usage Among Women
The use of the birth control pill is decreasing in the Netherlands. Although 77 percent of women still utilize some form of contraception, the pill is becoming less popular. This shift is potentially influenced by online discussions and influencers promoting skepticism towards hormonal contraception, suggesting potential negative health effects. Het Parool reports on this growing trend.
Increased Risky Sexual Behavior Among Men
Concurrently, data reveals that men are engaging in more unsafe sexual practices, particularly with casual partners. The Central Bureau of Statistics (CBS), in collaboration with the National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM) and other organizations, has documented this increase. CBS data, published in October 2025, highlights this concerning pattern.
Rising Obesity Rates
A separate but related public health issue is the tripling of obesity rates in the Netherlands over the past 40 years. While obesity rates remain lower than in most other EU countries, the upward trend is significant. CBS and RIVM data from March 4, 2024, details this increase.
COVID-19 Dashboard Development
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Netherlands developed a comprehensive dashboard to monitor the spread of the virus and inform public health responses. This dashboard was created through collaboration between the RIVM and other institutions. The development and actionability of this dashboard were assessed in a study published in JMIR Public Health and Surveillance.
Implications and Future Considerations
These converging trends – declining pill usage, increased risky sexual behavior and rising obesity – present complex challenges for public health officials in the Netherlands. Further research is needed to understand the underlying causes of these shifts and to develop effective interventions to promote safer sexual health practices and address the growing obesity epidemic. Continued monitoring by organizations like the CBS and RIVM will be crucial in tracking these trends and informing public health policy.