Evaluation of emotional reactions to oral contraceptive use
Kane, F.J.
American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology 126(8): 968-972
1976
ISSN/ISBN: 0002-9378 PMID: 793396 DOI: 10.1016/0002-9378(76)90686-4Document Number: 429641
Literature on the association of oral contraceptives (OCs) with psychological disturbances is reviewed. The data from available clinical studies indicate that perhaps 10-40% of OC users may experience mild to moderate depression syndromes characterized by tiredness, lethargy, sadness and, in some cases, loss of libido. These psychological alterations may involve numerous mechanisms including changes in folate, pyridoxine, and Vitamin-B12 metabolism, and related effects on biogenic amine metabolism. The interaction of these impaired mechanisms may disturb usual coping functions and psychological defenses by altered central nervous system activity.
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