How do birth control pills work?
According to Dr. Neha Khandelwal, Head of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Cloudnine Group of Hospitals, New Delhi (India), birth control pills contain synthetic hormones such as estrogen and progestin, which stop ovulation, thicken cervical mucus and thin the uterine lining to prevent conception. However, these hormones can affect neurotransmitters in the brain, such as serotonin, which regulates mood.
Hormonal changes or imbalances can lead to feelings of anxiety, depression, or negative mood swings, although not everyone experiences these side effects. If you have mood problems while taking the medication, talk to your doctor about finding a suitable birth control method.
The link between hormones and emotions
Hormones have a big impact on emotional health. Estrogen usually promotes feelings of happiness, but when estrogen levels drop or change suddenly, it can cause mood swings. Progestin, a synthetic form of progesterone, has a calming effect but can also increase feelings of irritability, anxiety, or depression in some people.
“Not everyone experiences mood changes, but people with a history of psychological problems may be more sensitive to these hormonal changes,” says Dr. Khandelwal.
Signs That Birth Control Pills May Be Affecting Your Mood
According to Dr. Khandelwal, birth control pills can affect mood, and these changes can manifest in the following forms:
Irritability: Feeling more frustrated or upset than usual.
Depression: Persistent sadness, feelings of hopelessness, especially in people who are prone to depression.
Anxiety: Increased feelings of worry or tension.
Emotional instability: Rapid changes in emotions, from happy to sad in a short period of time.
For many people, these symptoms may subside as the body adjusts to the medication. However, for some people, they may persist and require medical intervention.
