Contraceptive Options for Women with Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, and Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder
More details
Hide details
1
Clinic of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Vilnius University, Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Clinical Medicine., Lithuania
2
Faculty of medicine, Vilnius University, Lithuania
These authors had equal contribution to this work
Submission date: 2024-11-27
Final revision date: 2025-06-23
Acceptance date: 2025-08-28
Publication date: 2025-12-11
Wiadomości Lekarskie 2025;(10):2200-2208
KEYWORDS
TOPICS
ABSTRACT
Aim: To select and analyse the scientific literature on the impact of contraception on women with depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and premenstrual dysphoric disorder.
Material and Methods: A detailed literature analysis was performed using PubMed, WebMD, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar databases. The articles and books included were written in English and published between 2011 and 2024.
Results: Hormonal contraceptive use is linked to mental health concerns, particularly depression, with adolescents being the most vulnerable. Studies show that hormonal contraception, such as oral contraceptives and levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine systems, may be associated with an increased risk of depressive symptoms. However, the evidence remains mixed, with some studies reporting no significant link. Women with bipolar disorder and schizophrenia face higher rates of unplanned pregnancies due to cognitive and behavioural challenges. Therefore long-acting reversible contraceptives are recommended as the most suitable option. Additionally, hormonal contraceptives can interact with medications used for psychiatric disorders, potentially reducing contraceptive efficacy, or affecting the metabolism of psychotropic drugs. For women with premenstrual dysphoric disorder, combined oral contraceptives are effective in alleviating symptoms. Personalized contraceptive counselling is important to meet the specific needs of women with mental health conditions and ensure effective contraception use.
Conclusions: The impact of hormonal contraception on mental health varies across conditions, making personalized contraceptive counselling essential. Further research is needed to fully understand these complex interactions and develop evidence-based guidelines.