top of page

ADHD and PMDD: Is there a link? Why a hormone imbalance could make symptoms worse

Writer's picture: Hayley DownHayley Down

Have you ever found yourself feeling like a completely different person in the week before and into the first few days of your period? If so, you’re not alone - and if you're managing ADHD on top of that, it can feel like an overwhelming double whammy. But is there a connection between ADHD and PMDD? Let’s dive in.



What Exactly Is PMDD?


Before we get into the nitty-gritty of hormones, let’s talk about PMDD (premenstrual dysphoric disorder). Imagine PMS’s much nastier, moodier big sister. PMDD hits during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle (from ovulation until a few days after your period starts) and brings with it extreme mood swings, irritability, sleep disruptions, depression, and physical pain like headaches and cramps. It’s PMS on steroids, and it can seriously disrupt your daily life.


The ADHD-PMDD Connection


What’s particularly interesting is that PMDD is more common in neurodivergent women, especially those with ADHD. In fact, a 2021 study showed that almost half of women with ADHD report PMDD-like symptoms despite only affecting 3-9% of the general female population. The overlap is enough to make you wonder - what’s really going on here?


Let’s start with ADHD, a condition that's already challenging to manage on its own. ADHD affects your ability to focus, stay organised, and regulate emotions - essentially, it’s like having 20 browser tabs open in your brain, all the time. When hormones start fluctuating during certain parts of your cycle, things can go from chaotic to catastrophic.


Why Do ADHD Symptoms Flare Up Around Your Period?


New research suggests that your hormones could be to blame - specifically oestrogen and progesterone. Oestrogen is like the VIP guest at the brain party - it boosts dopamine and serotonin, the neurotransmitters that help with focus, memory, mood, and attention. During the first half of your cycle (the follicular phase), oestrogen levels are higher, and you might notice that your ADHD feels slightly easier to manage.

But then comes the luteal phase (the second half of your cycle), and oestrogen takes a nosedive while progesterone rises. For women with ADHD, this hormonal shift can exacerbate symptoms like:

  • Trouble focusing

  • Increased irritability

  • Impulsivity

  • Restlessness

  • Emotional overwhelm

And if you add PMDD into the mix, this hormonal rollercoaster can feel downright unbearable.


Hormones and Dopamine: The Missing Link


Dopamine, often called the “feel-good” neurotransmitter, is crucial for both ADHD and PMDD. ADHD is linked to lower dopamine levels, and PMDD seems to make things worse. When oestrogen drops, dopamine production declines, leaving you with less of this essential chemical to regulate mood and focus.

The result? You’re left feeling scattered, anxious, and exhausted. And if you’re already on ADHD medication, you might find it less effective during the luteal phase, as fluctuating hormones can affect how your body metabolises these meds.


The Role of Neuroinflammation


Here’s an intriguing twist: A 2024 study suggests that neuroinflammation (inflammation in the brain and nervous system) could play a role in both ADHD and PMDD. This inflammation might make you more sensitive to hormonal changes, amplifying symptoms and making it harder to bounce back.


While the exact mechanisms are still being studied, addressing inflammation through lifestyle changes - such as improving your diet, exercising regularly, and managing stress - could help manage both conditions.


Why Hormone Testing Matters for PMDD and ADHD


While conventional PMDD treatments often overlook hormone testing, my clinical experience as a Registered Nutritional Therapist tells a different story. For women struggling with PMDD - especially those who are neurodivergent - hormonal fluctuations can significantly exacerbate symptoms. That’s why I often recommend comprehensive testing, like the DUTCH test, which provides an in-depth look at hormone patterns throughout the menstrual cycle.


The DUTCH test can reveal critical insights, such as whether oestrogen imbalances or low progesterone are contributing to your symptoms. It can also identify issues with oestrogen metabolism, which may worsen hormonal symptoms. Armed with this information, we can personalise your nutrition and lifestyle approach to address the root causes, rather than just managing the symptoms.


Curious about what patterns we typically see on the DUTCH test for PMDD? I’ve written more about this in my blog: Is severe PMS impacting your life month after month? What is PMDD & what can you do about it?


Practical Tips for Managing ADHD and PMDD


If you’re dealing with ADHD and PMDD, you’re not powerless. Here are some strategies to help you navigate the hormonal chaos:


  1. Track Your Cycle: Knowledge is power. Use an app or journal to track your symptoms and identify patterns. If you notice ADHD symptoms seem worse during certain phases, you can plan ahead (and maybe cut yourself some slack).

  2. Prioritise Nutrition: Omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin B6, vitamin D, and magnesium are your new best friends. These nutrients support brain health and may help stabilise mood.

  3. Move Your Body: Exercise is a natural dopamine booster and can reduce both ADHD and PMDD symptoms. A brisk walk, yoga session, or dance party in your living room can work wonders.

  4. Consider Hormone Testing: If your symptoms are severe, working with a professional to assess hormone imbalances could provide valuable insights. Tests like the DUTCH Complete Panel can give you a clearer picture of what’s happening beneath the surface.

  5. Seek Support: Whether it’s through therapy, coaching, or an online community, connecting with others who understand your struggles can make a world of difference.


You’re Not Alone


Whilst it’s good to see the connection between ADHD and PMDD is finally getting the attention it deserves, but there’s still a lot we don’t know. What’s clear, though, is that you’re not imagining things, and you don’t have to suffer in silence.


If you’re ready to take control of your hormones and transform how you feel, I’d love to help. Together, we can uncover the root causes of your symptoms and create a personalised plan to help you thrive - not just survive - all month long.


Ready to get started? Let’s chat.

32 views1 comment

1 Comment


BookMy Essay
12 minutes ago

bkjnl

Like
bottom of page