How hormonal contraceptives affect stress and depression
Official title: Regulation of stress and depression by hormonal contraceptives
Funded at University of Michigan at Ann Arbor · NIH-10824648 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how birth control pills might affect stress and feelings of sadness by examining changes in the brain of mice, which could help us understand why some people feel different when using these contraceptives.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ann Arbor, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $42,459 |
| NIH project number | 1F31HD114532-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10824648 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who use hormonal contraceptives and experience mood-related side effects such as depression or anxiety.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not use hormonal contraceptives or those who do not experience mood-related side effects may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the effects of hormonal contraceptives, specifically oral contraceptives, on stress and depression. Using a mouse model, the study aims to understand how these contraceptives influence the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, which is crucial in regulating stress responses. The researchers will explore the biochemical and molecular changes that occur in the brain, particularly focusing on receptors that manage stress and mood. By integrating various scientific techniques, the project seeks to uncover the mechanisms behind the mood-related side effects experienced by some contraceptive users.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and management of mood-related side effects in individuals using hormonal contraceptives.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has indicated that hormonal contraceptives can affect mood and stress responses, suggesting that this investigation builds on established findings.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
Ann Arbor, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Schuh, Kristen — University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
- Study coordinator: Schuh, Kristen
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Biotype-based Personalization of Antidepressant Augmentation in Late-Life Depression
A multi-site study will test a computer-guided approach to choosing the best augmentation option for older adults with treatment-resistant depression.
-
Suubi-Mhealth: a mobile app to help Ugandan youth with HIV manage depression and ART adherence
A mobile app designed for 14–17 year olds in Uganda aims to support mental health and keep HIV treatment on track.
-
Group-based postpartum depression prevention: in-person vs. virtual delivery
A large study is testing whether the ROSE group program delivered virtually to pregnant people is just as helpful as the in-person version in preventing postpartum depression.
-
DESCANSO: A friendly CBT plan to ease depression, sleep problems, and fatigue in Latino cancer patients
A Spanish-speaking CBT program called DESCANSO is being tested to help Latino cancer patients feel less tired, sleep better, and happier.
-
Personalized iTBS for Depression: Faster, Targeted Brain Stimulation
A personalized, time-efficient brain stimulation approach may help people with treatment-resistant depression achieve better relief using tailored iTBS settings.
-
Ultrasound-guided brain circuit targets for treatment-resistant depression
This grant tests whether focused ultrasound can safely and reversibly adjust brain circuits linked to negative mood in people with treatment-resistant depression.
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.