ADHD symptoms are frequently exacerbated during menstruation. It is likely that estrogen enhances the efficiency of stimulants, hence decreased estrogen levels may reduce their effects. ADHD is a lifelong illness that can be influenced by hormonal changes that occur during childhood.
Women, hormones, and ADHD.
Recent research findings have demonstrated that women’s ADHD symptoms are greatly affected by hormonal fluctuations and transitional times, such as
Puberty and menstruation
Pregnancy
Postpartum
Perimenopause
Menopause
More precisely, reduced levels of estradiol, an estrogen hormone, are linked to worsening ADHD symptoms. This is more noticeable when progesterone or testosterone levels are already high, as during cyclical hormonal shifts. Looking for extra help during your time of the month? The Inflow app includes detailed learning modules on a variety of female-specific ADHD subjects, as well as a supportive network of ADHDers who truly understand. Join us in the Inflow application!
Why does my ADHD go worse during my period?
Many ADHDers say that their symptoms worsen during their periods. This is connected to decreased estrogen and progesterone levels, which occur more than once during each cycle. An illustration of the hormonal changes that occur during a 28-day menstrual cycle. Everyone is unique! This portrayal is purely for visual purposes. | Image Source: HelloClue In a normal menstrual cycle, estrogen levels rise and fall twice. First rise occurs in the middle of the follicular phase (immediately after menstruation).
First fall: fast; occurs near ovulation (mid-cycle).
Second rise: lower peak than the first rise; occurs mid-luteal phase (after ovulation but before menstruation).
Second fall: returns to baseline; occurs at the end of the cycle, right before the following period.
Following the second decrease, estrogen levels are at their lowest. These dips alter brain neurotransmitters such as dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine, which influences the severity of ADHD symptoms. Conduct periodic research! A 2017 study found hormonal swings and changes in ADHD symptoms. Researchers discovered that when estrogen levels decline, ADHD women who consistently suffer with impulsive behaviors have less control over their urges. In other words, individuals acted more impulsively during their periods. Furthermore, the study discovered that ADHD symptoms change during the menstrual cycle, with an increase seen during the early follicular and early luteal phases.2
ADHD and associated reproductive health issues
FYI: This is not what it’s like to have your period. Can we all agree that having a period is nothing like those tampon commercials featuring folks in white trousers leaping happily across broad fields? Some people can maintain physical exercise, while others experience PMS symptoms like cramps.
Tender breasts.
Headaches
Bloating
Constipation or diarrhea
You can also have a more severe form of PMS known as premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). PMDD can cause extreme mood fluctuations, impatience, and worsened depression or anxiety. ADHD research! A 2021 study on hormones and mood disorders discovered that women with ADHD have more severe PMS than those without ADHD. Researchers concluded that ADHD women may be more sensitive to hormone-related mood disorders such as PMDD, postpartum depression (PPD), and mood changes before and throughout menopause throughout their lives.
Why does it seem like my ADHD medicine isn’t functioning during my period?
Stimulant medicines are the most widely given treatment for ADHD. Stimulants can be methylphenidate-based (e.g., Ritalin or Concerta) or amphetamine-based (e.g., Adderall and Vyvanse). Both types block dopamine and norepinephrine reuptake in the brain via neurotransmitter transporters. Amphetamine-based stimulants also inhibit and slow down the release and reabsorption of dopamine and norepinephrine within cells. The chemical connection between ADHD medication and menstruation is unclear, but it’s possible that the fluctuation of estrogen can impact the effectiveness of the medicine. Note: This article has further information about ADHD drug alternatives.
What can you do if this happens to you?
The good news is that you are currently reading this; self-awareness is really important! The less-good news is that you’ll need to see a doctor before making any big modifications. So, first things first, make your appointment! Next, prepare questions for your appointment so that you can advocate for yourself. Talking points for your next doctor’s appointment Make a list of some of the things you want to ask your gynecologist and general practitioner during your next appointment. How do I track my menstrual cycle? Will it help me predict when my symptoms will change? Should I change my ADHD medication depending on the time of month? Can you explain hormonal contraception and how it may effect my ADHD and PMS symptoms? Do you propose any lifestyle adjustments for specific times of the month to help me manage my symptoms? What do you know about antidepressants and how they may effect my PMS or PMDD symptom