Is there a Link between Birth Control and Depression? Posted: 06-19-06 15:13pm
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.
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DoctorAnswer
Doctor Answer
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Depression Answer A1147 Posted: 08-08-07 07:08am
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.
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