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An Evaluation of Depression as a Side Effect of Oral Contraceptives

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  29 January 2018

Anne Lewis  and
Masud Hoghughi
Anne Lewis
Affiliation:
Winterton Hospital, Sedgefield, Stockton-on-Tees; Aycliffe School, Co. Durham
Masud Hoghughi
Affiliation:
Aycliffe School, Co. Durham
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Extract

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the extent of depressive side effects in women of child-bearing age currently taking oral contraceptives. The incidence of depression has been variously reported as between 2 per cent. and 5 per cent. (Any Questions, 1965), but clinical impression has been that this is an underestimate. Rather alarmingly, also, there has been a tendency to explain away symptomatology on a “scapegoat effect” basis (Bakker and Dightman, 1966). By blaming the Pill the patient has been held to increase her own self-esteem and avoid responsibility for lethargy, irritability, etc. Nevertheless, alert physicians have consistently recommended caution (Kaye, 1963; Grant, 1965).

Type
Pharmacotherapy
Information
The British Journal of Psychiatry , Volume 115 , Issue 523 , June 1969 , pp. 697 - 701
Copyright
Copyright © Royal College of Psychiatrists, 1969 

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References

Any Questions (1965). “Depression with oral contraceptives.” Brit. med. J., ii, 1416.Google Scholar
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