Contraception and Depression in Baghdad, Iraq: A Preliminary Report

: Background: The use of contraceptives was recorded to be high in Iraq, as family planning became important to deal with the highly increasing population. No data is available about the relation between the use of contraceptives and mental health. Aims: to report on depression among Iraqi women using contraceptives Subjects and methods: A total of 139 married women using contraceptives were included in the study for the period 2 nd January to 30 th November, 2014. The sample was recruited from the gynecology outpatient clinic of Baghdad Teaching Hospital. Socio-demographic and clinical data were obtained and Beck Depression Inventory II was used to rate depression. Results: Sixty three (63.3%) of women have depressive syndrome. There was no significant association between type of contraception and depression Conclusion: Depression is common among women using contraception.