of adults are diagnosed with ADHD
The extra effort ADHD women put into living in a neurotypical world can lead to overwhelm and sometimes burnout. Exacerbation of ADHD symptoms in perimenopause and menopause may trigger recognition in women that they may have ADHD, which they have often masked and managed all of their lives.
During menopause, ovaries produce less oestrogen as they stop releasing eggs and periods eventually stop. However, this decline in oestrogen can impact other chemicals and hormones in the body which in turn, affect the symptoms of ADHD. This is why during menopause, patients may feel like they are having more difficulties than usual or that existing symptoms worsen.
Dr Emily Kelly is an specialist in menopause and ADHD. She works with patients to develop a personalised treatment plan for their symptoms.