Contraceptive pills are widely used by women around the world to prevent pregnancy. While these pills are generally considered safe, there have been concerns regarding their impact on mental health. In the past few years, discussions around the impact of emergency contraceptive pills on women’s mental health have sparked debates and concerns. Studies have shown a potential link between contraceptive pills and increased anxiety or depression.
To understand the link between emergency contraceptive pills and poor mental health, OnlyMyHealth interacted with Dr Seema Sharma, Associate Director - Obstetrics & Gynecology, Paras Health, Gurugram.
Anxiety And Contraceptive Pills
Talking about contraceptive pills, Dr Sharma said, “While the common effects of contraceptive pills on reproductive health are widely acknowledged, the profound threat they pose to mental health are often overshadowed.”
The hormones in the birth control pills prevent pregnancy by blocking the conception if sperm fertilises an egg. These pills also cause changes in your uterus so that it cannot support pregnancy when you are taking the pill.
The major reason behind the concern of mental health is the hormonal content of the contraceptive pills. Most contraceptive pills contain synthetic forms of oestrogen and progesterone and these hormones play a crucial role in regulating mood. Thus, any disruption in their balance can result in mood related issues leading to anxiety.
Talking about how contraceptive pills can affect your mental health, Dr Sharma said, “Hormonal contraception, a cornerstone of many contraceptive pills, has been recognised as a potential trigger for anxiety and depression in some individuals. This connection between oral contraceptive pills and mental health hinges on the type and quantity of progestogen they contain.”
Adding further, Dr Sharma said, “These effects can significantly disrupt daily life and interpersonal relationships, adding to the complexity of managing mental health alongside reproductive health. Furthermore, the influence of contraceptive pills on mental health can extend beyond immediate mood disturbances.”
Also read: Emergency Contraceptive Pill: All You Need To Know
Evidence Based Study
Studies investigating the link between contraceptive pills and mental health have yielded mixed results. Some research suggests that hormonal contraceptives may indeed influence mood and exacerbate symptoms of anxiety or depression in some women. However, the relationship between these pills and mental health is complex and can vary depending on individual factors.
In a study published by BMC Women’s Health, it was found that four in 10 women had anxiety, 39.9% based on General Anxiety Disorder and it was higher among participants taking progesterone only pills 89.2% as compared to combined oral contraceptive pill users 10.8%.
Studies have also noted that factors such as history of depression or anxiety, sensitivity to hormonal fluctuations, and genetic predisposition may increase the likelihood of experiencing side effects like anxiety or depression
Also read: Do Oral Contraceptive Pills Harm Liver Health? Doctor Answers
Long Term Usage
Talking about the long term usage of these pills, Dr Sharma said, “Long-term use of hormonal contraception has been associated with alterations in brain chemistry and neurotransmitter levels, potentially contributing to persistent emotional challenges.”
Conclusion
Concluding, Dr Sharma said, “While they offer crucial benefits in preventing unwanted pregnancies, their effects extend beyond physical health. The diverse reactions individuals may experience highlight the importance of personalised healthcare, where the advice of healthcare professionals can guide decisions to mitigate potential risks and optimise overall well-being.”