[Mental changes in women due to the use of hormonal contraception].

The study investigates physical, mental and sexual changes in women at the beginning of use or after discontinuation of a combined hormonal contraception. Thirty women were interviewed at least 3 months and at most 2 years after the start of use or discontinuation of combined hormonal contraception. Semi-structured interviews were supplemented by 16-symptom rating scale on which women assessed the results of an imaginary study of side effects of hormonal contraception. Both methods identically demonstrated pronounced effect of combined hormonal contraception on decline in sexual desire and painful menstruation. No clear difference was found in psychical symptoms, although qualitative analysis indicated possible changes.