Birth controlcomes in many forms, including hormonal and non-hormonal options.

Like all other medications, there areside effects associated with contraceptives, such as headaches or irregular bleeding.

Birth control can broadly be divided into two categories: hormonal birth control and non-hormonal birth control.

Young woman holding contraceptive pills

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Non-hormonal methods do not have any side effects that affect mood.

The copper IUD can also be used as emergency contraception.

They are all effective if used within five days of having unprotected sex.

This side effect was most commonly found in adolescents who were taking hormonal contraceptives.

Interestingly, much of the research reports that depressive symptoms subsided over time with continued use.

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Summary

Many people report depressive symptoms as a side effect of taking hormonal birth control.

Have an open dialogue with your healthcare provider about your side effects and options.

Progestin-only options have fewer hormones and produce milder side effects.

you might also consider a hormone-free option, such as the copper IUD.

There are side effects associated with any form of birth control.

The injection and implant are two forms of birth control that are associated with a risk for weight gain.

Other types of hormonal contraception do not include weight gain as a primary side effect.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Current contraceptive status among women aged 1549: United States, 20172019.

U.S. Food and Drug Administration.Birth control chart.

Planned Parenthood.What kind of emergency contraception should I use?

Skovlund CW, Mrch LS, Kessing LV, Lidegaard .Association of hormonal contraception with depression.JAMA Psychiatry.

21(5):347-355. doi:10.1080/13625187.2016.1217327

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Depression among women.