The Subtle Ways Contraceptives Affect Women’s Emotions and Mental Health

Ladies, let’s have a heart-to-heart talk about the link between birth control and our emotions. We all know those little pills, patches, or T-shaped devices are lifesavers in family planning. But they can also come with some unexpected baggage.

While hormonal birth control is undeniably compelling, some experts share its potential to stir up a storm in our emotional seas. From the occasional mood swings to severe mental health concerns, the impact of hormones is a conversation we need to have.

Don’t worry; we’re not here to scare you off birth control altogether.  We’re here to help you understand the potential risks of contraception’s emotional impact. And guide you toward making informed choices for your overall well-being.

Decoding Hormonal Birth Control

Hormonal birth control (HBC) is a widely used method of family planning that offers women control over their reproductive health. Combined hormonal contraceptives introduce synthetic hormones—either a combination of estrogen and progestin or progestin alone—into a woman’s body. These hormones mimic the natural hormones estrogen and progesterone, effectively suppressing ovulation and preventing pregnancy.

Estrogen and progesterone are not solely responsible for reproductive functions. They also play a significant role in mood regulation and emotional well-being. Estrogen, in particular, influences the production of serotonin, a feel-good chemical that contributes to feelings of happiness and stability.

Studies say serotonin increases in the follicular phase when estrogen levels are high. Conversely, serotonin decreases during the luteal phase when estrogen levels are low, and progesterone is high.

On the other hand, progesterone can sometimes induce a calming effect and relieve anxiety or lead to feelings of melancholy. The introduction of synthetic hormones through HBC can, therefore, interact with this delicate hormonal balance, potentially influencing a woman’s emotional state.

Finding Your Perfect Contraceptive Fit

So, we’ve talked about the emotional ups and downs that can sometimes accompany hormonal birth control. But there are different types of contraceptive options, each with its pros and cons. Let’s explore these contraceptive options and find your perfect match.

Hormonal Contraceptives

Hormonal contraceptives (HBCs) are a popular and effective contraceptive method for many women. They come in various forms, each with its benefits and drawbacks.

The Pill: The most well-known HBC pills are daily oral contraceptives containing either a combination of estrogen and progestin.

Progestin-Only Pills (POPs/Mini Pills): POPs contain only progestin, making them a good option for women who can’t take estrogen. They are similarly effective to combined pills when taken on time. However, their strict timing requirements can be challenging for some women.

Patches: These thin, sticky patches release hormones through the skin. They’re convenient, require weekly replacement, and offer similar benefits to combined pills.

Hormonal IUDs: These T-shaped devices are placed in the uterus by a healthcare provider. They release a low dose of progestin directly into the uterus. They are long-lasting (3-5 years), highly effective, and can cause lighter or even absent periods.

Non-Hormonal Contraceptives

If hormones aren’t your jam, don’t worry; you can choose a non-hormonal birth control option anytime. These methods don’t mess with your body’s natural chemistry. This makes them an excellent choice for women who are sensitive to hormones or simply prefer to keep things au naturel.

One popular option is the copper IUD, aka Paragard. This little T-shaped device sits comfortably in your uterus and releases copper ions, creating an environment that’s toxic to sperm. It boasts a 99% success rate in preventing pregnancy and can last ten years. Plus, it’s hormone-free so that you can dodge those mood swings and other hormonal side effects. However, being aware of recent concerns that have led to thousands of lawsuits is crucial.

The primary issue revolves around the Paragard device breaking or fracturing during removal. It can lead to severe complications, including uterine perforation, infections, and emotional distress.

Thousands of women have filed lawsuits against Teva Pharmaceuticals, the maker of Paragard. The Paragard lawsuit alleges the company failed to warn about the risk of breakage and the potential for serious complications.

TorHoerman Law mentioned these lawsuits have been consolidated into a multidistrict litigation (MDL) to streamline the legal process. As of July 2024, over 2,736 lawsuits are pending, with bellwether trials scheduled for 2025.

If you have a Paragard IUD or are considering getting one, it’s essential to be aware of these potential risks. Talk to your doctor about the benefits and drawbacks of Paragard, and discuss any concerns you may have. If you’ve experienced complications with Paragard, especially during removal, know that you’re not alone.

The Roller Coaster of Mood Swings

Hold on tight because hormonal birth control can sometimes turn your emotions into a wild ride. It’s not unusual to find yourself laughing one minute and crying the next. Or feel a short fuse has replaced your patience.

Research confirms that mood swings are a genuine concern for many women using hormonal birth control. Studies show women using combined oral contraceptives (COC) experience a 12.67% increase in adverse effects. It shows a 7.42% increase in anxiety and a 23.61% increase in mental health.

Another study finds emotional side effects are a leading cause of women (48.3%) ditching their current birth control. Women with a psychiatric illness history are 61.2% more likely to report mood swings compared to those without a history.

One possible culprit is the synthetic progesterone found in many hormonal contraceptives. This artificial hormone may interfere with GABA, a neurotransmitter that helps us feel calm and collected.

Contraceptive progestins change allopregnanolone levels, a positive allosteric modulator of the GABA-A receptor. When GABA gets thrown off balance, it can trigger feelings of anxiety, irritability, and those dreaded mood swings.

A large Danish study found an even more concerning connection. It revealed an increased risk of depression diagnoses and antidepressant use among women on hormonal birth control. This is especially true among teenagers and those using non-oral methods.

Now, before you panic and toss your pill pack in the trash, remember that everyone reacts differently to hormones. Some women experience minimal changes, while others feel the impact more intensely. And while research paints a conflicting picture, it’s clear that hormonal birth control can send your emotions on a detour.

Beyond Mood Swings: Depression and Anxiety

While mood swings might be the most talked-about emotional side effect of hormonal birth control, the potential impact doesn’t stop there. For some women, these hormonal changes can trigger or exacerbate more serious mental health conditions like depression and anxiety.

Let’s talk numbers: A significant study from Uppsala University found a 73% increased risk of developing depression in women using combined oral contraceptives. This is primarily within the first two years.  The risk skyrocketed to 130% for teenage girls who started the pill, perhaps due to the added hormonal upheaval of puberty.

Moreover, there is a higher risk of depression diagnoses and antidepressants among women on hormonal birth control. The majority impact is on young women. This data can feel heavy, but it’s important to remember that not all research points in the same direction. Some studies have found little link between hormonal birth control and depression. While others even suggest it might have a protective effect on some women.

The truth is, it’s complicated. We are unique with our genetic makeup, hormonal sensitivities, and life experiences. While hormonal birth control might trigger depression in some, it might alleviate symptoms for others. This is especially true in women struggling with premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD).

And let’s not forget anxiety. It’s another mental issue that can sometimes show up with hormonal birth control. Feeling on edge, constantly worried, or experiencing racing thoughts can be a real drag, wildly unexpected.

FAQs

Can Birth Control Make You Lose Feelings for Someone?

While hormonal birth control may affect emotions and relationships, there’s no definitive evidence that it causes lost feelings for a partner. Some individuals report changes in attraction or satisfaction when starting or stopping hormonal birth control, but these experiences vary

Can Birth Control Make You Overthink?

Yes, some individuals may experience increased anxiety or overthinking while using hormonal birth control. This is due to hormone fluctuations, particularly estrogen and progesterone, which can affect brain chemistry and mood.

What Is the Best Birth Control for Mood Stability?

Birth control pills containing drospirenone, a progestin with low androgenic activity, are often recommended for mood stability. Yaz is currently the only birth control pill approved to treat premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), a severe form of PMS. Other options include monophasic pills, hormonal IUDs, and non-hormonal IUDs.

Your Body, Your Choice

Your body is yours. And that means you get to call the shots when it comes to your birth control and your emotional well-being.

First, talk to your doctor. Be upfront about any history of mood disorders, anxiety, or depression, even if it feels a little awkward. They need to know the complete picture to help you choose the right contraceptive for you. Many women said their doctors never even mentioned the possibility of mood changes with birth control. That’s a huge communication gap we need to bridge.

Once you’re on a new birth control method, become your mood detective. Keep a journal to track your emotions, noting any ups and downs, irritability, sadness, or anxiety. Don’t hesitate to speak up if your moods are all over the map.

Your doctor is there to help you find solutions. That might mean trying a different type of birth control, adjusting your dosage, or exploring non-hormonal options.