Hormone Fluctuations, Menstrual Cycles and ADHD

In this conversation, Johanna Badenhorst discusses the impact of hormonal changes on ADHD symptoms in women. She shares her personal journey with ADHD and hormonal conditions, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and how they have affected her ADHD symptoms. Johanna highlights the role of estrogen and progesterone in regulating neurotransmitters and how fluctuations in these hormones can lead to changes in ADHD symptoms. She emphasizes the need for more research on the connection between hormones and ADHD in women and the importance of personalized treatment and self-advocacy.

Keywords

ADHD, hormonal changes, women, estrogen, progesterone, neurotransmitters, symptoms, research, treatment, self-advocacy

Takeaways

Hormonal changes, particularly fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone, can impact ADHD symptoms in women.

Rising estrogen levels during the follicular phase can improve mood and executive function, but may increase impulsivity and hyperactivity.

Declining estrogen and increasing progesterone during the luteal phase can lead to emotional dysregulation, working memory problems, and premenstrual symptoms.

Hormonal shifts during puberty, pregnancy, postpartum, and perimenopause/menopause can exacerbate ADHD symptoms.

There is a need for more research on the impact of hormones on ADHD in women and personalized treatment strategies.

Tracking menstrual cycles and symptoms can help women with ADHD better understand their own bodies and advocate for appropriate support and treatment.

Sound Bites

"The changes in our estrogen levels really impact our executive functioning and our mood regulation."

"Perimenopausal and menopausal phase, the decline in estrogen can worsen ADHD symptoms."

"It probably helps to learn about this to notice patterns for yourself, even if the research is slim."

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Chapters

00:00 - Johanna's Entrepreneur Journey and Hormonal Struggles

04:41- The Vital Connection: Hormones and ADHD Symptoms