12/31/2025
A recent study found that women with ADHD are three times more likely to experience premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), which is a SEVERE form of PMS that causes intense emotional and physical symptoms, significantly impairing daily life. Symptoms, which usually begin one to two weeks before a period, including mood swings, severe irrationality, rage, depression, anxiety, and physical symptoms like bloating, fatigue, headaches, joint/muscle aches, brain fog and more.
🗂️How Hormonal Changes Affect ADHD and PMDD:
📑Hormonal Fluctuations and Neurotransmitters: Estrogen, progesterone, and other hormones directly influence the brain’s neurotransmitter pathways, particularly those involving dopamine and serotonin, which are critical for both ADHD and mood regulation.
📑Dopamine Dysregulation: The premenstrual decline in estrogen can reduce dopamine availability. For individuals with ADHD, who already have dopamine-related differences, this drop can intensify symptoms like inattention and impulsivity.
📑Increased Sensitivity: Women with ADHD may be more sensitive to these normal hormonal shifts, leading to a greater amplification of both their ADHD and mood-related symptoms compared to those without ADHD.
📑Exacerbated Symptoms: The combination of pre-existing ADHD and the hormonal changes can lead to a significant worsening of symptoms, with potential for more severe mood swings, irritability and emotional dysregulation, which are key features of PMDD.
Clinicians should be aware that individuals with a diagnosis of ADHD, or with high ADHD symptom levels, and who have a menstrual cycle may be more likely to experience PMDD. Future research should investigate the underlying mechanisms that link ADHD and disorders associated with hormonal sensitivity, such as PMDD.
SPOILER ALERT: ‼️
Schedule with www.infocusfirst.com
✅ We take a medication and comprehensive approach to alleviate your PMDD symptoms so you can get your life back.
PMID: 40528384; Attached is the article for your review.
Comprehensive mental health care in Indiana. Expert ADHD testing, anxiety & depression therapy. Accepting new patients with next-day appointments. Schedule now.