A large study of over 264,000 women has found that the use of oral contraceptive pills may increase the risk of depression, especially in teenage girls who have a 130% higher rate of depression. Adult users also had a 92% higher rate. The study, published in Epidemiology and Psychiatric Sciences, adds to previous research linking hormonal contraceptives with depression. However, most women tolerate external hormones well with few adverse side effects. The researchers noted that contraception has many advantages for women but medical practitioners and patients should be informed about the potential side effects identified in this and previous research.
