WTF is AuDHD? E10 | PMDD, hormones & neurodivergence - what they didn’t teach us
Mar 24, 2025
Discover the mystery of menstrual cycles and the often-overlooked effects of hormones on mood and energy. Explore the challenges surrounding PMDD, especially in neurodivergent individuals, and hear personal stories of navigating harsh symptoms. Learn about the relationship between ADHD, autism, and hormonal shifts, as well as practical self-care strategies throughout the cycle. Insight into medication experiences and the quest for better mental health enhances this compelling discussion.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Luteal Hormone Shifts Drive Premenstrual Symptoms
- The luteal phase brings estrogen drops and progesterone rises that trigger mood swings, bloating, fatigue and sensory sensitivity.
- These hormonal shifts directly impact sleep, cognition, and emotional regulation before menstruation.
Hormone Drops Amplify Neurodivergent Symptoms
- Neurodivergent brains (ADHD, autism) are more sensitive to neurotransmitter changes during the cycle.
- Estrogen drops reduce dopamine and serotonin, amplifying ADHD/autism symptoms into PMDD-level impairment.
Two Lives: Highs Then Debilitating Lows
- Ellie and Paige live 'two lives' with two good weeks and two debilitating weeks each month.
- They describe extreme mood swings, loss of motivation and decisions they later regret during the bad weeks.
