Join Our Community!
Share
Mental Health > Depression Forum > Is there a Link between Birth Control and Depression?
Birth control is helpful in preventing pregnancy. Need to know more about birth control? Start here to learn more about popular methods of birth control....
You have many birth control options. Each works differently. What are the choices and what should you consider in order to help you make your decision? ...
Each method of birth control comes with risks to your health. What are the general problems you could encounter?...
User Profile
Q: Is there a Link between Birth Control and Depression?
asked by: DoctorQuestion on June 19th, 2006
I was wondering if there has been any link between depression and the birth control patch. I am having some problems with depression and was wondering if there could be any link between the two. I am having other things going on in my life right now, but it seems like I just haven't been able to cope.


Did you find this post useful?
|
Replies(3)
User Profile
Dr. Nikola Gjuzelov , MD
replied on August 8th, 2007
Depression Answer A1147
Yes, there is a link between usage of birth control pills and development of depression. Oral contraceptives decrease the level of serotonin in the brain and can result in depression. But it seems likely that, in your case, the “other things going on in your life” may be more responsible for your depression than birth control pills. You can seek help from a support group, a mental health professional (psychologist), or friends and family to identify the possible emotional source of this condition. Coping may seem overwhelming, but you are not alone and there are tools that you can learn for dealing with depression.




DISCLAIMER: "Ask a Doctor" questions are answered by certified physicians and other medical professionals who volunteer their time on eHealth Forum. For more information about experts participating in the "Ask a Doctor" Network, please visit our medical experts page. You may also visit our Depression , for moderated patient to patient support and information.

The information provided on eHealth Forum is designed to improve, not replace, the relationship between a patient and his/her own physician. Personal consultation(s) with a qualified medical professional is the proper means for diagnosing any medical condition.
Did you find this post useful?
|
This question has been answered by the doctor. This topic is now open for public discussion, however no comments below this point will be answered by a doctor.
Quick Reply
Search