Although the use of oral contraceptives has been implicated in the onset of depressive episodes pregnancy has been noted to be associated with a lower risk of developing periodic depression. It was considered worthwhile to pursue a small pilot study to evaluate the potential gain or risk of treatment with Enovid an agent that at high dosage produces a pseudopregnant state. Patients were selected who had a history of periodic psychiatric illness or postpartum depression. Initial psychiatric evaluation and medical studies were done. The drug regimen used was 10 mg Enovid for 1 week with weekly increments of 10 mg until 40 mg were reached. The drug was then discontinued and a placebo given for 2 weeks. Patients were observed for another month. Psychotherapy occupational and recreational therapies were continued during the treatment period. Of the 4 patients studied 1 improved moderately 1 slightly and 2 remained unchanged. Clinical use should be deferred until further data are accumulated.