Women taking the contraceptive pill 'more likely to be depressed'

ConclusionThis was a large prospective cohort study which aimed to investigate whether using hormonal contraception is associated with the future use of antidepressants and a diagnosis of depression.The researchers compared users of hormonal contraception with non-users and found users were more likely to be prescribed antidepressants and diagnosed with depression. However, there are a few important points to consider about the results, such as: this study is not able to prove that the contraceptive methods are responsible for the depression – only to find possible links to investigate further some of the associations are based on a comparatively small number of events the risk of using antidepressants and being diagnosed with depression peaks at approximately two to three months of contraceptive use, but then begins to fall The researchers tested for a range of other things that might explain the results. For example, they looked at whether doctors were more likely to prescribe hormonal contraception to women who were already low in mood, or whether the initiation of a sexual relationship might influence the risk of depression. They found nothing that could easily explain the link that was shown across all age groups and types of contraception.Further studies are required to prove this link. If the link is proven in future studies, depression may have to be added as a possible side effect of hormonal contraception. Links To The Headlines Women taking pill more likel...
Source: NHS News Feed - Category: Consumer Health News Source Type: news