Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. It often begins in childhood and can persist into adulthood. Menopause is the end of a woman's reproductive years, marked by the permanent cessation of menstrual periods.
As women go through menopause, fluctuations and drops in estrogen and progesterone levels can exacerbate ADHD symptoms or cause issues similar to ADHD including problems with:
- Focus and concentration
- Organization and planning
- Impulse control
- Regulating emotions
So in essence, yes -
ADHD symptoms may seem to get worse for some women going through perimenopause and menopause. Here's a deeper look at what's happening:
The Menopausal Transition
The transition to menopause, known as perimenopause, usually starts for women in their 40s but can begin earlier or later. It lasts for an average of 4 years but can last up to 10 years until the final menstrual period.
Common symptoms of perimenopause include:
These changes are tied to the decline and fluctuations in reproductive hormones like estrogen and progesterone. The instability of hormones during the menopausal transition can exacerbate underlying issues like ADHD.
ADHD and Menopausal Hormone Changes
Exactly how menopause impacts ADHD is complex, but researchers believe several factors play a role:
- Estrogen regulates norepinephrine and dopamine - key neurotransmitters impacted by ADHD
- Estrogen decline influences stress response - this can worsen ADHD capacity to manage emotions and stress
- Changes in estrogen and progesterone impact the brain including areas involved with focus, concentration and impulse control
The natural declines and variabilities in estrogen, progesterone and other hormones are enough to upset delicate balances in the brain. For those predisposed to issues like ADHD, this can tip some women into having more severe symptoms.
Some key problem areas reported by women with ADHD going through menopause include:
- Worsening focus and concentration - leading to problems finishing tasks, forgetting things
- Disorganization and procrastination getting worse
- Emotional dysregulation - increased moodiness, irritation, anger outbursts
- Motivation issues - like apathy, difficulty starting/finishing work
- Impaired memory and mental clarity - trouble recalling information, details
- Anxiety or depressive symptoms may emerge or worsen
The good news is that there are things women can do to ease this challenging transitional time.
Tips for Managing ADHD and Menopause
Here are some proactive tips for women with ADHD going through menopause:
- Get ADHD screened/evaluated - document symptoms to track changes
- Consider HRT - hormone replacement therapy may help stabilize mood and focus
- Discuss supplements - soy, black cohosh, vitamins E/B12 for some relief
- Try CBT or coaching - manage symptoms and build coping strategies
- Develop good habits - healthy diet, exercise, sleep and stress relief
- Use organizational aids - planners, calendars, to do lists to help offset memory/planning issues
- Communicate with loved ones - enlist their support and understanding
In addition to self-care strategies, medications like
stimulants and antidepressants may be options if ADHD and emotional symptoms become significantly bothersome. Every woman's experience is different, so working closely with your doctor can help determine the best treatment plan.
There are also great
online resources and support groups specifically for women with ADHD going through menopause - knowing you're not alone makes a big difference!
In Conclusion
Yes, many women with ADHD find their symptoms get worse in perimenopause and menopause due to the impact hormonal fluctuations have on neurotransmitters and brain function. Paying attention to changes and accessing the right mix of lifestyle adaptations, medications or therapies can help women better manage their ADHD at this time. The Hormone Wellness Center has extensive experience successfully treating women with ADHD during menopause and midlife.