Birth Control Pill and Depression

What is the link between the birth control pill and depression?

Contraceptive pills generally contain two main hormones, one being estrogen and the second being progesterone. These synthetically developed estrogen and progesterone pills are mainly employed to stop ovulation, but one of the main side effects of taking these birth control pills is the lowering of levels of serotonin, one of the neurotransmitters in the brain. Low levels of serotonin can result in one feeling depressed.

If the dosage of hormones in the prescribed medications is relatively lower, the risk involved in being effected by depression is also considerably lower. However, certain contraceptive pills that contain only progesterone are said to be more likely to cause depression; therefore, it might be advisable to check the chemical composition of the contraceptive pills before getting started on them.

The link between the birth control pill and depression might be stronger in women who have a family history of depression or have experienced depression in the past. For these women, it might thus not be advisable to take such drugs without consulting their psychiatrist or psychologist. This is because taking birth control pills might act as a trigger for major clinical depression.

As for people who are already going through depression, birth control pills that contain either or both of these synthetically manufactured hormones might exacerbate existing depression and make the condition worse.

Therefore, it is very important for women to first understand the side effects of popping birth control pills - consume a birth control pill and depression may be an unwanted consequence. Unless women first understand the unpleasant side of taking birth control pills, it might not be a good idea to start using them.

Also, for women who are on antidepressants, it is important to inform their gynecologist or practicing physician about this before starting on ovulation or birth control pills. The adverse affects of taking these drugs in conjunction will need to be discussed with the person before starting on parallel medications.

It is advisable for women to consult their gynecologist and understand the various aspects of taking birth control pills. If possible, always ask for low-dose oral contraceptive pills that are effective, but at the same time do not result in depression by reducing the serotonin or tryptophan levels in the body. Research studies do suggest that one could take a low-dose oral contraceptive birth control pill and depression does not result. This is because these drugs do not disturb the levels of serotonin or tryptophan in the body.

In any case, it is always best to be aware of the side effects of various pharmacological drugs before commencing on them. Chemical drugs, after all, always come with side effects, sometimes even serious reactions, including death.

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