The Effect of Oral Contraceptives on Depressive Symptoms

Since the introduction of oral contraceptives (OCs) nearly 50 years ago, study results regarding OCs’ effects on mood have varied. Some studies suggest that OCs have a positive effect, even warranting use in the treatment of severe premenstrual syndrome (PMS); other studies have indicated that OCs increase risk for irritability. Investigators analyzed data from a population-based survey of women’s health in Australia in 2000 involving 9688 women (age range, 22–27) and from a follow-up survey in 2003 of 9081 women. The study’s authors used the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale to assess depressive symptoms.

In 2003, a higher percentage of OC nonusers than users reported depressive symptoms (30% vs. 23%), but the difference was…