A new large-scale study from Uppsala University reveals a significant correlation between the usage of combined contraceptive pills and an increased risk of depression in women, particularly within the first two years of use and more so among teenage users. The researchers advocate for heightened vigilance from healthcare providers and comprehensive communication to patients regarding the potential hazards.
The study uncovered that women using combined contraceptive pills encountered a higher chance of developing depression compared to their counterparts who did not, with a 73% increase in risk noticed during the first two years of use.
Depression, impacting over 264 million individuals globally, is the principal cause of illness and disability. At least one quarter of all women and 15% of all men experience depression that necessitates treatment at some point in their lives.
The question of contraceptive pills’ potential detrimental impact on mental health, even leading to depression, has been a long-standing debate. While numerous women opt to discontinue contraceptive pills due to mood fluctuations, the scientific evidence thus far has not been unequivocal. This research is one of the most extensive to date, encompassing over a quarter of a million women from UK Biobank from birth through menopause.
To conduct the study, researchers collected data on women’s contraceptive pill use, the onset of their depression diagnosis, and their initial experience with depression symptoms sans diagnosis. The contraceptive method under review was combined contraceptive pills, which contain progestogen and estrogen, hormones that prevent ovulation, inhibit sperm entry into the uterus, and thwart the implantation of a fertilized egg, respectively.
Therese Johansson, leading the study at Uppsala University’s Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, emphasizes that both medical professionals and patients must be informed of the potential side-effects identified in this study and previous ones.
The study also revealed that women who began contraceptive pill use as teenagers demonstrated a 130% higher prevalence of depression symptoms, while the relative increase in adult users was 92%.
Johansson attributes this significant effect on teenagers to the hormonal changes associated with puberty, making them more susceptible to not just hormonal changes but other life experiences as well.
The researchers also observed that the heightened incidence of depression reduced when women continued to use contraceptive pills beyond the first two years. However, teenage pill users continued to show a higher incidence of depression even after discontinuing the pill, a phenomenon absent in adult users.
Johansson is quick to point out that most women handle external hormones well, without negative mood effects, making combined contraceptive pills an excellent option for many. Nevertheless, certain women may experience an increased risk of depression upon starting contraceptive pill use.
The study’s findings underline the need for healthcare professionals to be vigilant about the possible connections between depression and contraceptive pill use. The researchers stress the importance of informing women considering contraceptive pills about the potential depression risk associated with their use.
Johansson clarifies that the study only investigated combined contraceptive pills and thus cannot make conclusions about other contraceptive methods. She states that future studies aim to explore different formulations and administration methods to provide women with more information for informed decision-making regarding their contraceptive options.
Reference: “Population-based cohort study of oral contraceptive use and risk of depression” by T. Johansson, S. Vinther Larsen, M. Bui, W. E. Ek, T. Karlsson and Å. Johansson, 12 June 2023, Epidemiology and Psychiatric Sciences.
DOI: 10.1017/S2045796023000525
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about contraceptive pills, depression risk
What is the main finding of the study from Uppsala University?
The study from Uppsala University found that the use of combined contraceptive pills is associated with a 73% increased risk of depression in women, particularly during the first two years of use and among teenage users.
How does the risk of depression vary between teenage users and adult users of contraceptive pills?
Teenage users of contraceptive pills showed a 130% higher incidence of depression symptoms compared to adult users, who had a relative increase of 92% in depression risk. The hormonal changes during puberty may make teenagers more susceptible to the effects of hormonal changes and other life experiences.
Are all women equally affected by the risk of depression when using contraceptive pills?
No, the study indicates that while most women tolerate external hormones well and do not experience negative mood effects, certain individuals may have an increased risk of depression after starting to use contraceptive pills. The impact on mental health may vary among individuals.
What should healthcare providers do in light of these findings?
Healthcare providers should be aware of the potential link between contraceptive pill use and depression. They should inform women considering contraceptive pills about the potential risk of depression as a side effect and provide clear communication about the possible risks and benefits of different contraceptive options.
Can the findings of this study be generalized to other forms of contraception?
No, this study specifically focused on combined contraceptive pills containing progestogen and estrogen. The study did not examine other contraceptive methods such as mini-pills, patches, hormonal spirals, vaginal rings, or contraceptive rods. Further research is needed to explore the effects of different formulations and methods of administration.
More about contraceptive pills, depression risk
- Uppsala University Study: Population-based cohort study of oral contraceptive use and risk of depression
- UK Biobank: Official Website
- Mayo Clinic: Depression Overview
- American Psychological Association: Understanding Depression
4 comments
so only combined pills were studied? what abt other options like patches or rods? we need more research!
women should know that not all of us have negative mood effects! but it’s good to be aware of the possible risks and have open communication with doctors
i always thought the pill was safe! this study is a wake up call for healthcare providers to inform patients abt the risks
contraceptive pills cause depression! teenage girls at higer risk OMG!