4 Apr 2025 • Initiating hormonal contraceptives (HCs) within a year postpartum has been linked to a higher risk of depression, a study suggests.

Among over 610,000 first-time mothers, those initiating HCs had a 49% higher risk of depression compared to non-users (aHR: 1.49) compared to non-users.

Combined nonoral contraceptives posed the greatest risk (aHR: 1.97), followed by combined oral contraceptives (aHR: 1.72) and progestogen-only nonoral contraceptives (aHR: 1.40). While progestogen-only pills initially lowered depression risk, the risk rose later.

These findings emphasize the need for careful mental health monitoring in postpartum women opting for HCs.

Source: JAMA Network | Read Full Story