What if you were depressed because of your IUD? An epidemiological study conducted by the GIS Epi-Phare has just established a link between the dose of levonorgestrel contained in the intrauterine device (IUD) and the risk of depressive disorders. This concerns the two IUDs containing the most levonorgestrel, i.e. 52 mg: Mirena and Donasert.
The study, which is based on health insurance reimbursement data, shows that women carrying these two types of IUDs use slightly more antidepressants in the two years following the insertion of this contraceptive than those carrying a IUD with less progestin.
A 13% increased risk of antidepressant use
This study is the first to confirm the risk of depressive syndrome in the event of use of Mirena and Donasert and to show that this risk depends on the hormone dosage”, explains Isabelle Yoldjian, medical director within the National Agency for the Safety of Medicines and Health Products ( ANSM). This risk, already known and listed on the drug’s instructions, is “low at the individual level”, nevertheless qualifies the researcher. 4% of women using the 52 mg IUD will take antidepressants within two years of drug insertion, compared to 3.6% for those with a 19.5 mg IUD. That is an increased risk of 13%.
Isabelle Yoldjian does not however invite women under Mirena and Donasert to systematically withdraw their contraception. Even those with a history of depression. If this study allows “an awareness, the risk of depressive disorders must be put into perspective with the benefits, in particular for women suffering from endometriosis and having menorrhagia”, estimates the medical director within the ANSM.
“Encourage the exchange with their patient”
On the other hand, if a woman notices unusual mood disorders, feels more depressed than usual, Isabelle Yoldjian encourages her to go see her health professional to discuss these symptoms and possible alternatives. “We hope that health professionals will take note of this study and that it will promote discussion with their patient about their contraception and the associated symptoms. »