Evaluation of emotional reactions to oral contraceptive use

• Published in: American journal of obstetrics and gynecology Vol. 126; no. 8; p. 968
• Main Author: Kane, Jr, F J
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: United States 15.12.1976
• Subjects: Ascorbic Acid - metabolism; Biogenic Amines - metabolism; Clinical Trials as Topic; Contraceptives, Oral - adverse effects; Contraceptives, Oral - pharmacology; Depression - chemically induced; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; Emotions - drug effects; Estrogens - adverse effects; Female; Folic Acid - metabolism; Humans; Male; Progestins - adverse effects; Pyridoxine - metabolism; Sexual Dysfunction, Physiological - chemically induced; Time Factors; Vitamin A - metabolism; Vitamin B 6 Deficiency - chemically induced; Decreased Libido; Central Nervous System Effects; Oral Contraceptives > side effects; Depression; Psychological Factors; Biology; Contraception; Contraceptive Methods > side effects; Family Planning; Vitamins; Diseases; Literature Review; Mental Disorders; Vitamin B Complex; Physiology; Behavior; Sex Behavior
• DOI: 10.1016/0002-9378(76)90686-4
• ISSN: 0002-9378

A review of available clinical studies indicates that 10 to 40 per cent of oral contraceptive users may suffer mild to moderate depression syndromes. Clinical and animal data indicate that a variety of mechanisms may be involved, including alterations in folate, pyridoxine, and vitamine B12 metabolism, as well as related effects on biogenic amine metabolism. Interactive effects may result, such as impairment of usual coping mechnisms and psychological defenses by altered central nervous system function.