Survey study, 2024
How does the menstrual cycle affect ADHD symptoms in women?
This paper proposes that estrogen drops during the cycle may worsen ADHD symptoms, but this theory is untested and so we cannot yet know if it is true.
What they did
This paper reviews evidence and proposes a new theory about how hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle might affect ADHD symptoms in women.
What they found
The authors propose that rapid declines in estrogen may worsen ADHD symptoms at two points: mid-cycle (with increased risky and impulsive behaviors) and before the period (with increased inattention and avoidance). They suggest that hormonal changes during puberty make the brain's emotional centers overdeveloped, which may make women with ADHD especially vulnerable to monthly hormone fluctuations.
What it means for you
This is an untested theory, not original research findings, so we don't yet know if it is true. It may help explain why women with ADHD notice their symptoms change during the month, but more research is needed.
About the study
- Original title
- Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder and the menstrual cycle: Theory and evidence
- Authors
- Eng AG, Nirjar U, Elkins AR et al.
- Journal
- Hormones and behavior
- Year
- 2024
- Study design
- Survey study
- What was tested
- Theoretical framework proposing hormone effects on ADHD symptoms
- Open access
- Yes
- Read the paper
- doi.org/10.1016/j.yhbeh.2023.105466
Topics
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