Abstract

  Introduction: In this study the relationship between oral contraceptive pills (OCP) and symp-toms of anxiety-depression has been investigated.

  Method: In a cross-sectional descriptive study, 200 females who referred to a West Tehran health center were evaluated. One hundred OCP takers were compared to one hundred OCP nontakers. Data were collected using Hamilton ’s Anxiety Questionnaire and Hamilton ’s Depression Scale. Data analysis was done using Mann-Whitney and c ² tests.

  Results: Of 31 symptoms explored (i.e., 17 depressive symptoms, 14 anxiety symptoms), symp- toms of depressed mood (63%), impaired concentration (30%), and genital symptoms (44%) were significantly higher in OCP takers than in controls. The remaining 28 symptoms, did not differ significantly between cases and controls. The mean depression score was not different between the groups. The mean anxiety score was higher in the OCP group. Depression and anxie- ty scores were not associated with the duration of OCP use.

  Conclusion: Although some anxiety and depressive symptoms were higher in OCPs takers, most women are not at risk of serious psychiatric side effects of OCPs.