Kings College, Queen Mary Track 50 Women’s ADHD Symptoms Across Menstrual Cycles
Updated
Updated · bbc.co.uk · Jul 13
Kings College, Queen Mary Track 50 Women’s ADHD Symptoms Across Menstrual Cycles
3 articles · Updated · bbc.co.uk · Jul 13
Summary
Fifty women with ADHD are logging their menstrual cycles, symptoms and medication response in what researchers say is a first-of-its-kind study by Kings College and Queen Mary University.
Electronic diaries are being used to test whether hormonal shifts—especially lower oestrogen before periods—worsen focus, impulsivity, anxiety and depression, and make ADHD drugs less effective.
Participants described sharp monthly declines, with some saying medication that normally gives hours of focus barely works during their periods and others reporting stronger cravings, overspending or risk-taking.
The project comes as ADHD awareness among women rises in the UK, where about 2.5 million people are thought to have the condition and NHS stimulant prescriptions were up 23% year on year.
Researchers say the still-unfinished study could help explain ADHD across menstruation, perimenopause and menopause, offering evidence for women who say symptoms intensify at predictable hormonal points.
If low estrogen makes ADHD worse, could hormone therapy be the next breakthrough for women?
With ADHD care based on male models, how will this hormonal link finally force a change?
Over 3x Higher PMDD Risk in Women with ADHD: The Overlooked Impact of Hormones on Diagnosis, Treatment, and Quality of Life
Overview
Recent research reveals a strong link between ADHD, hormonal changes, and Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) in women. Hormonal fluctuations can significantly worsen ADHD symptoms and contribute to severe premenstrual conditions like PMDD, which is marked by intense emotional, physical, and cognitive symptoms before menstruation. This emerging understanding highlights the need for more research and better clinical care, as recognizing how hormones affect ADHD can lead to improved diagnosis and treatment. Addressing these connections is crucial for supporting women’s mental health and ensuring they receive care tailored to their unique experiences.