Poster Session 6, 4:15 PM - 5:00 PM: Concourse [B14]

The Effects of Hormonal Contraceptives on the Mental Health of Healthy Adult Females

Presenter: Zoe Amelia Miller

Faculty Sponsor: Katherine Dixon-Gordon

School: UMass Amherst

Research Area: Psychology and Behavioral Sciences

ABSTRACT

Hormonal contraceptives (HCs) are widely used across the United States, yet the lengthy list of side effects is understudied. HCs are used not only to prevent pregnancy, but also to treat many conditions, such as polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). HCs use synthetic steroids to suppress ovulation, yet these synthetic hormones have understudied effects on the brain, such as alterations in cortical volume, neurotransmitter levels, and neuropeptides. Changes in mental health and mood have been noted, yet many studies and reviews find differentiating results. The purpose of this research is to systematically review relevant studies and papers that examine the effects of HCs on the mental health of adult females with no pre-existing medical conditions. Through the set inclusion and exclusion criteria, we will screen and review articles from PubMed and PsychINFO, presenting the findings via a narrative synthesis. Research surrounding hormonal contraceptives is important because they are highly prescribed for a variety of reasons, but their side effects, psychological side effects in particular, are often undermined, causing users to discontinue their usage. Mental health is not just an individual issue, it is a public health issue with rates of suicide, physical health complications, and overall community suffering increasing as mental health issues increase. Understanding the role of HCs in mental health will allow us to increase overall wellbeing. This research is particularly important because HCs and females in general are chronically understudied.

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