Birth Control: Which Method Won't Cause Mood Swings?
Q.
Is there a difference between how estrogen vs. nonestrogen contraceptives affect mood? I was on Ortho777 for years and experienced initial mood swings that eventually stabilized; however, my overall mood felt too flat (a little disconnected). When I took a break from it to try Depo-Provera, I didn't notice any particular impact on my moods, but I did gain 15 pounds. I went back to Ortho777, but the mood swings seemed so intense that I quit after two months. I haven't been on any oral contraceptives in four years, but I miss the convenience and would like to try again. I was wondering if the mini pill might be better for me since, like Depo-Provera, it has no estrogen.
A.
More often than not, many experts believe the mood changes associated with oral contraceptives have to do with the progestin component rather than the estrogen. All combination oral contraceptives contain ethinyl estradiol as the estrogen, although the dose may vary from brand to brand. The progestin component is different. Changing pills may allow you all the benefits without the mood changes. It may take a couple of tries to find the pill that works best for you. Usually, a particular pill is tried for three months before making any changes. Good communication between you and your doctor is necessary.
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