The SF-36 can be used to screen for suspect depression in a youth population followed by interview. This gives an opportunity to detect and treat emerging depressive symptoms early.

Adolescent girls showed seasonal variations in self-reported health and depressive symptoms, with more symptoms during winter months. HC users tended to report better physical health and less depressive symptoms than those on no medication. The high prevalence of suspected depression during the winter months deserves attention.

Objectives: Our purpose was to study whether there is a difference in self-rated health-related quality of life (HRQOL) and changes in HRQOL perception after 3 months of hormonal contraceptive use in adolescents. Seasonal variations in symptoms of depression were also studied. Methods: A test group (T1) (n ¼ 193) and a selected control group (n ¼ 238) of women aged 14-20 years who were visiting a young person's clinic completed the 36-item short-form health survey (SF-36) and answered additional questions on menstrual history and pattern, need for menstrual pain relief medication, and other regular medication. The test group was reassessed after 3 months of hormonal contraception (T2). Seasonal variations in reported SF-36 scores were studied for the whole group. Results: The selected control group and test group at T1 were similar with regard to age at menarche and menstrual pattern. The duration of bleeding and use of painkillers were significantly reduced and the impact on everyday life was significantly improved after 3 months of hormonal contraception (p ¼ .000, two-tailed). No changes in HRQOL or symptoms of possible depression were found after 3 months of hormonal contraception. The highest prevalence odds ratio for possible depression (SF-36 mental health scale score 48), adjusted for group, season and age, for spring vs winter, was 2.15 (95% confidence interval 0.95, 4.85). Conclusions: After 3 months of hormonal contraception both the number of days of menstrual bleeding and the use of medication to relieve menstrual pain were reduced, but there were no significant changes in self-rated HRQOL perception. Seasonal effects on HRQOL were reported. ARTICLE HISTORY

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the cost of the menstrual cycle for young Swedish women aged 14-20 years. The young women were randomly selected and interviewed by a trained female psychologist; a total of 68 young women completed the interviews. Twenty of the girls used oral contraceptives, while 48 had natural periods. The oral contraceptive users had a lighter menstrual flow and shorter periods (1 day less) than the girls with natural menstruation. The oral contraceptive users experienced less menstrual pain, used fewer painkillers and did not stay at home during their periods as often as the girls with natural periods. The cost of sanitary protection products was about US$1 per month less for the oral contraceptive users. Girls taking oral contraceptives also avoided stained underwear and soiled bedlinen significantly more often than the non-oral contraceptive users. The study design did not allow for cost estimates on soiled underwear, bedlinen or lost work- or schooldays. The results of the study indicate that expenditures related to the menstrual cycle are considerable for young Swedish women.

This study describes physical functioning and mental health among young people visiting a YC. The results indicate a worsening of the perceived physical and MH in young individuals, especially in young women. Further studies are needed to monitor changes in MH and quality of life over time in this group and assess the effects of interventions. This study enhances the importance of a holistic approach towards health and health promotion comprising both physical and mental health issues.