Study finds no link between depression and birth control

The vast majority of women will use some method of birth control during their lifetime. Despite there being 37 million in the United States who are currently on birth control, many still worry about potential side effects. Depression is a common concern for many women, but a new study by researchers at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center is putting patients at ease after finding that there is no evidence to support a link between hormonal birth control and depression. 

 

“Depression is a concern for a lot of women when they’re starting hormonal contraception, particularly when they’re using specific types that have progesterone,” said Dr. Brett Worly, lead author of the study and OB/GYN at Ohio State Wexner Medical Center. “Based on our findings, this side effect shouldn't be a concern for most women, and they should feel comfortable knowing they’re making a safe choice.”

 

Worly and his team reviewed thousands of studies on the mental health effects of contraceptives. They included data tied to various contraception methods, including injections, implants and pills. Similarly, researchers reviewed studies examining the effects of hormonal birth control on postpartum women, adolescents and women with a history of depression, all with the same conclusion: there is insufficient evidence to prove a link between birth control and depression.

 

These findings are putting patients like Gina Carlomagno, who has suffered from depression in the past, at ease as they try to figure out which method of birth control works best for them.

 

Watch the video to learn more.