Psychological effects associated with oral contraceptives
Psychological effects associated with oral contraceptives

Summary/Abstract: Combined oral contraceptives (COC) are used by millions of women worldwide. Althoughfindings are not entirely consistent, COC have been found to impact on brain function and,thus, to modulate affective processes. Even though conflicting, the data already publishedshould make aware every prescriber that women on oral contraceptive (OC) can developpsychological problems. In this situation, physicians have to focus their attention on thosecases that at risk, like adolescents, women with depression or with previous history ofhormonal contraceptive-induced adverse mood.The current study highlights the effects of OC on fear, depression and suicidal behaviour andit is intended to be a useful tool for the medical practice of both psychiatrists and those whoprescribe sexual hormones therapies.

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