Dear Dr. Mike, 
  My teenage daughter was put on the birth control pills about 5 months 
ago to alieviate some of her discomfort from severe cramps and also to 
regulate her periods. 
  I have noticed her to be "down in the dumps" quite alot of the time. 
i am aware that teenagers can at times be moody, but she says she has 
felt depressed shortly after she has started taking the pill, and wants 
to come off of it. She is not sexually active. 
  Is it possible that the pill is causing her to be depressed or sad? 
I would appreciate any insight! 
				   Thank You, 
				  Renee, NY

Absolutely!

Birth control pills are hormones which help regulate the female menstrual cycle. These hormones not only effect the menstrual cycle, but feelings and emotions. Add to that the ups and downs of normal teenage life ("Ahhh, the good old days").

It is usually not as simple as just putting someone on birth control to control cramping, period regulation, etc. Different types and dosages need to be attempted to find the "right one".

It sounds like your daughter knows her body. Check with your doc, and he or she will probably want to stop or adjust the dosage or pill type.

Also, this may sound crude, but even though your daughter is not sexually active now, she may be sometime in the future. I think it is very important that she understand from you, the importance of birth control, and safe sex now, instead of later. But, I'll bet you already have that covered.

I hope that helps you. Dr. Mike

This article was reviewed 04/23/2010 07:24 AM

The Children's Pavilion   4405 N. Holland-Sylvania avenue   Suite 102    Toledo, OH 43623    Phone: 419 841 0772 

© cic 1999-2010