| Last Updated:
May 14, 2008 - 6:48:34 PM |
In addition to all the moral and ethical considerations, we should also be concerned about possible unexpected negative side effects of powerful hormonal supplements in the developing bodies of pre-teen and early teen females.
A recent study by Yale University researchers analized 140 studies from accross the basic and clinical neurosciences. It stated that "substance use disorders constitute neurodevelopmental disorders."
Obviously, the parallel between the effects of addictive chemicals and the effects of powerful hormones is not exact. I certainly do not claim to know what [all] the effects could be, but commonly young girls taking prescription birth control experience weight gain, sometimes depression etc.
The Yale studies conclude, "Particular sets of brain circuits involved in the development of addictions are the same ones that are rapidly undergoing change during adolescence" and "These conditions also reflect a less mature neurological system of inhibition, which leads to impulsive actions and risky behaviors."
It seems at least a worthy question to ask what possible negative side effects related to brain and other developing organ systems might occur [by giving young girls prescription birth control].
Dr. Watkins is a Counselor in the University of Maine System and lives in Kennebec County.
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