Women who used combined contraceptive pills were at greater risk of developing depression than women who did not, according to a new study from Uppsala University. Contraceptive pills increased women’s risk by 73 percent during the first two years of use.
In a global perspective, depression is the leading cause of ill health and disability. More than 264 million people are affected, and at least 25 percent of all women and 15 percent of all men experience depression that requires treatment at some point during their life.
The possibility that contraceptive pills might have negative effects on mental health and even lead to depression has long been discussed. Although many women choose to stop using contraceptive pills because of the influence on their mood, until now, the picture emerging from research has not been straightforward. This study is one of the largest and widest-ranging to date, following more than a quarter of a million women from UK Biobank from birth to menopause.
A recent study has found a potential association between women’s use of contraceptive pills and an increased risk of depression. Researchers analyzed data from a large-scale survey involving over 1 million women. They discovered that those using hormonal contraceptives, such as birth control pills, were more likely to experience symptoms of depression compared to those who did not use such methods. The findings highlight the importance of considering mental health implications when discussing contraceptive options.
The study revealed that the risk of developing depression was highest among adolescent girls, with an 80% increased likelihood when using hormonal contraceptives. Although the exact mechanisms behind this association are yet to be fully understood, hormonal changes triggered by contraceptive pills could influence mood regulation and increase the vulnerability to depressive symptoms.
It is crucial for women who use or are considering hormonal contraceptives to be aware of this potential risk and consult their healthcare providers. Discussing alternative contraceptive options, evaluating individual risk factors, and closely monitoring mental well-being can help make informed decisions regarding contraception.
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