Hormones and ADHD: What You Need to Know as an ADHD Women
If you are an ADHD woman you need to know about ADHD and Hormones.
Changes in hormones like estrogen can cause ADHD symptoms to get better or worse depending on how much or little you have or how it is interacting with other hormones like estrogen.
Understanding this connection can help you manage your energy, commitments and life.
Forom this page you can explore more in-depth information on specific topics by following the links provided. You’ll find pages that go deeper into how ADHD and hormones interacting with mood and executive functions during your menstrual cycle, pregnancy, perimenopause, and menopause.
ADHD and Hormones: TLDR
Women with ADHD often experience different symptoms than men because of hormone changes. Estrogen, is the key hormone that affects mood and thinking, changes at different stages in your life. These changes can make ADHD symptoms better or worse. Learning about these patterns is important for managing your ADHD effectively.
Estrogen and Dopamine: How They Affect ADHD
Estrogen influences dopamine, which helps with focus mood and attention. High estrogen levels can make you feel more focused and in control, while low estrogen levels can lead to feeling more distracted, forgetful, or emotional. During each key cycle discussed, estrogen levels fluctuate impacted dopamine and thus your ADHD.
ADHD, Hormones, and Your Menstrual Cycle
Your menstrual cycle affects your hormone levels and can impact your ADHD symptoms.
The cycle has two main parts: the follicular phase, when estrogen rises, and the luteal phase, when estrogen falls.
Many ADHD women notice that their symptoms worsen during the luteal phase, which is right before their period. You might feel more irritable, tired, or have trouble focusing. Tracking your cycle can help you understand these changes and manage them better. Research is helping us understand more each day about this
[Learn more about ADHD and your menstrual cycle here.]
ADHD, Hormones, and Pregnancy
Pregnancy brings big changes in hormone levels, which can change how ADHD symptoms show up. Some women find that higher estrogen levels during pregnancy help them feel more balanced, while others struggle with increased responsibilities and mood swings. It’s important to talk to your doctor about managing ADHD during pregnancy, whether that involves adjusting medications or finding new coping strategies.
[Read more about ADHD and pregnancy here.]
ADHD, Hormones, and Perimenopause
Perimenopause is the transition period leading up to menopause, marked by fluctuating hormones. For many women with ADHD, this can mean new challenges, like memory problems and mood swings. Even if you've managed your ADHD well in the past, perimenopause can make it more difficult. It’s important to work with your healthcare provider to adjust your treatment as needed.
[Find out more about ADHD and perimenopause here.]
ADHD, Hormones, and Menopause
Menopause is when menstrual cycles end, and estrogen levels drop significantly. This hormonal shift can worsen ADHD symptoms, such as anxiety, mood swings, and trouble concentrating. Understanding what’s happening in your body can help you prepare and find the right support. Treatments like hormone replacement therapy, lifestyle changes, and medication adjustments can help manage symptoms.
[Discover more about ADHD and menopause here.]
By understanding how hormones affect your ADHD, you can take steps to better manage your symptoms throughout different stages of life. Use the links above to learn more about each topic and find strategies that work for you. Remember, you’re not alone—there are resources and support available to help you navigate these changes. Be kind to yourself and advocate for the care you deserve.
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