---
title: Contraception and Depression
date: 2026-01-20T09:50:00-05:00
author: Jonese Austin
canonical_url: "https://ourbodiesourselves.org/health-info/contraception-and-depression"
section: Resources
---
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[Health & Sexuality Info](/health-info)# Contraception and Depression

In this article, the nonprofit Power to Decide provides information to consider if we’re concerned about the effect of hormonal contraceptives on our mental health and mood. Some people report feeling no change in their mood from using hormonal contraception, while others state that hormonal contraceptives contributed to depression.

Hormonal contraceptive methods work by changing our body’s hormone levels. Some hormonal contraception contains progestin alone, while other kinds have both progestin and estrogen. Along with their effectiveness in preventing pregnancy, hormonal contraceptives can have beneficial side effects. They can help alleviate heavy menstrual bleeding and they may reduce anxiety and depression.

We should pay attention to how hormonal contraceptives make us feel. If we’re feeling tired, have a loss of interest in activities and hobbies, experience feelings of intense sadness, and have a change in appetite for more than two weeks, we should consult with a medical provider.

Fortunately, there are many different types of contraceptives, including options that are hormone-free. With the guidance of our medical providers, we can determine what contraceptive method works best for our own bodies.

> Some research has found links between hormonal contraceptives and depression. But that doesn’t mean that everyone—or even most people—using hormonal birth control will have new or worsening depression or experience depressive symptoms due to birth control. Overall, it seems that both adults and young people report either no change or a slightly more positive mood after starting the pill.

[Read the full article ](https://powertodecide.org/news/birth-control-and-depression)

SOURCE: Power to Decide • AUTHOR: Maggi LeDuc • LAST UPDATED: August 15, 2022

![The back of a woman sitting on a bed in front of a window](data:image/png;base64,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) panitan/Adobe Stock

![](/assets/img/monogram.webp)Topics

- [ contraception](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/subject-area/contraception)
- [ contraception methods & access](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/themes/birth-control-methods-access)
- [birth control pill](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/tags/birth-control-pill)
- [estrogen](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/tags/estrogen)
- [depression](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/tags/depression)
- [anxiety](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/tags/anxiety)

![](/assets/img/monogram.webp)### *Why You Can* **Trust Us** 

- We rigorously evaluate all content
- We embrace a reproductive justice framework
- We don’t accept ads or sell products
- We reject funding from the pharmaceutical industry
- We counter misinformation and disinformation
- We address the social, political, and economic factors that affect health and sexuality

[read more](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/why-you-can-trust-us)

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##### More to Explore

[ResourcesWatch

## Beyond the Pill: Birth Control For Your Life!

In this video, young women share their experiences of finding the birth control method that works best for them.

![Birth Control For Your Life](data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAACAAAAAgCAIAAAD8GO2jAAAACXBIWXMAAA7EAAAOxAGVKw4bAAADBklEQVRIiXWVTY4UMQyFP2dS04NACCTEYm7ANTkkG04AKxZoNOquymOR2HGqh1KplU4lfj+2E/v+8xdgYFBQgQKGik8aAOqvENaggUSLeeIRvsVMQJWUPwqEMJbZFEiow2iZTEvzHqiHFAr60oaK0JjUVCDzBTQk2apAcu74LoN6OzqAbJiTjcoAJiR3pmENdTCtnC0BAPX1OBhxh/XFMSIBpuzGyEHzfAxXwRVMGKC+3I4epdwluUzJMw0Na/IBnAC6GQvA39uRLSro4a6QGPUTlK3BMfMRLi2h+6D+ue1kczQAikOuCswTwEEkg56eJCMB/L7uuDkPDvDQ8TRdigQcRsOOATAGQkPHKHpNi35c94IqbLBJj1DRJgImVRENDmw32+EGV+wKr/CKGm7lYhj15bqnRsnflBt05M8YeTGfWSxMAN6/ldu+RJf+A2AAdvebn7w3FHA7FvwIrdnuHt8VnAAspTcwXErlODxQ+qAAW/0xS4OTCCV+CrcrLVkmX6Q7lyJifxFmWD5GU4TkQY1srNGTS52+5Hw1kPLhRuZ3Aij5OLfZ8P1oyTkYbxdBqqXTxr7Vq+i5lO5FkzXpkB1NN2mX7fLqHjmwBJAy4SGT9P4aqH7biouT/6o1/7vIM8xsgRmxeyc3KV5JDSTV561Gk0v944AJQh4dc/o2C8lJnLb2mw/q10vtORlTkkTrBMbtuFjkGFhS0E2egTPAl0v1GpNa5q7ZmKlMk0XkutJgmTcjqX5+2rzG5gpHmgRnf1mCYRbqKa681+qnyzYVCLWAwZffnRPhT2rkrjdYOl/qx8sWK+aaYDBkmLdCAiADKNVJkBVQPwwAd1wJ3hOl6Kmon6XR5iGfjRoA7y/Vi2Ch73IjwJsYU0EywekLUH231SnyTfrjCDCRrT/lYITz5hwJAOrTVt2gexHpSF2CdhGpiiJ66PAboj7WEjTfAMiVmq4BW0soENAyQNT6UJa7KLuUDuws4r4JzhZNNdRiBYsaCBgbGOkwmBZ5jVrC8BvMRvB+YRj/AFF2aYcbbp3XAAAAAElFTkSuQmCC)

In this video, young women share their experiences of finding the birth control method that works best for them.](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/health-info/beyond-the-pill-birth-control-for-your-life)

[ResourcesLook

## Contraceptive Choices Poster

This downloadable poster provides information on contraceptives. It includes emergency contraception. It details how to use them, key facts, and their effectiveness.

![A marble table with contraceptive methods and a pregnancy test](data:image/png;base64,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)

This downloadable poster provides information on contraceptives. It includes emergency contraception. It details how to use them, key facts, and their effectiveness.](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/health-info/contraceptives-choices-poster)

[ResourcesRead

## About Birth Control

This interactive page from Planned Parenthood helps you find birth control methods in line with your priorities.

![What's the contraceptive method of your choice?](data:image/png;base64,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)

This interactive page from Planned Parenthood helps you find birth control methods in line with your priorities.](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/health-info/about-birth-control)

[ResourcesRead

## Medications That Can Affect Sexual Desire and Pleasure

Some medications can interfere with a woman’s sexual desire, ability to experience orgasm, and the intensity of orgasms.

![A collection of different pills in their packages](data:image/png;base64,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)

Some medications can interfere with a woman’s sexual desire, ability to experience orgasm, and the intensity of orgasms.](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/health-info/medications-affecting-sexual-desire)

[Stories & ConversationsWatch

## It Was Like Somebody Turned on a Faucet

CB discusses the process of finding a treatment for her painful periods and heavy bleeding, until discovering that they were caused by fibroids and cysts.

![Period Blood](data:image/png;base64,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)

CB discusses the process of finding a treatment for her painful periods and heavy bleeding, until discovering that they were caused by fibroids and cysts.](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/stories-conversations/living-with-irregular-menstrual-cycles)

[Stories & ConversationsWatch

## Dealing with Mental Health Issues

MB describes her struggle coming to terms with mental health issues. She shares how her parents hindered her from getting help, but her friends supported her.

![Marisa](data:image/png;base64,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)

MB describes her struggle coming to terms with mental health issues. She shares how her parents hindered her from getting help, but her friends supported her.](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/stories-conversations/my-story-dealing-with-mental-health-issues)

[Stories & ConversationsWatch

## Dealing with Contraception Side Effects

MT shares her experience using birth control to treat heavy, painful periods. She addresses problems with the first birth control pill that she tried.

![My Story- Dealing With Contraception Side Effects](data:image/png;base64,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)

MT shares her experience using birth control to treat heavy, painful periods. She addresses problems with the first birth control pill that she tried.](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/stories-conversations/my-story-dealing-with-contraception-side-effects)

[ResourcesRead

## Air Pollution and Menopause Symptoms

Researchers find that air pollutants can worsen menopause symptoms by causing estrogen to decline faster.

![An older woman stands in a circle of smoke in a city](data:image/png;base64,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)

Researchers find that air pollutants can worsen menopause symptoms by causing estrogen to decline faster.](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/health-info/air-pollution-menopause-symptoms)