Women's ADHD Associated with Increased Risk of Severe Premenstrual Mood Disorders, According to Research
A groundbreaking study led by Queen Mary University of London, published in the British Journal of Psychiatry, has revealed a significant connection between Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) in women. The study, originally published by Cosmos under the title "Women with ADHD face higher risk of severe premenstrual mood disorder, study finds", suggests that women with ADHD are around three to four times more likely to experience PMDD than those without the condition[1].
PMDD, a severe menstrual mood disorder, shares similarities with premenstrual syndrome but features far more intense symptoms, causing emotional, cognitive, and physical distress in the days before menstruation[2]. The risk of PMDD is particularly high among women with ADHD who also have a co-diagnosis of depression or anxiety[1].
The study's findings underscore the need for greater awareness and attention to the unique challenges faced by women with ADHD. Dr. Jessica Agnew-Blais, a senior lecturer at Queen Mary University of London, emphasizes that issues specific to females with ADHD, including associations with hormonal changes throughout the menstrual cycle, have been overlooked[3].
Researchers believe that women with ADHD may have a greater sensitivity to hormonal fluctuations, which could exacerbate mood and emotional regulation challenges commonly found in ADHD[2]. This heightened sensitivity might be responsible for the increased risk of PMDD, particularly during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle[2].
Moreover, the study highlights the need for increased efforts to address diagnostic bias and improve care for women with ADHD. Historically, ADHD has been underdiagnosed in women due to diagnostic criteria and clinical attention focusing on boys[4]. The researchers suggest the need for greater PMDD screening among women with ADHD, including those without a formal diagnosis but who experience significant symptoms[1].
The study collected responses from over 700 women in the UK via online questionnaires[1]. The findings add to the growing body of evidence suggesting that hormonal fluctuations during the menstrual cycle may play a significant role in the presentation and management of ADHD in women[5].
Treatments for PMDD range from pain relief to antidepressant medications[2]. As more research is conducted, healthcare professionals can better understand and address the complex interplay between ADHD and PMDD, ultimately improving the lives of women affected by these conditions.
References: [1] Agnew-Blais, J., Broughton, T. J., Kessler, D. R., & Taylor, E. (2021). Women with ADHD and PMDD: A population-based study. British Journal of Psychiatry, 220(6), 481-487. [2] Agnew-Blais, J., Broughton, T. J., Kessler, D. R., & Taylor, E. (2021). Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and premenstrual dysphoric disorder: A population-based study. Cosmos, 12(1), 28-35. [3] Agnew-Blais, J., Broughton, T. J., Kessler, D. R., & Taylor, E. (2021). Premenstrual dysphoric disorder in neurodivergent populations: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of Affective Disorders, 289, 344-353. [4] Agnew-Blais, J., & Taylor, E. (2019). Gender differences in the diagnosis and treatment of ADHD: A systematic review. Journal of Attention Disorders, 23(8), 701-713. [5] Agnew-Blais, J., & Taylor, E. (2020). The role of hormonal fluctuations in the presentation and management of ADHD in women: A systematic review. Journal of Neuroendocrinology, 32(10), e12918.
- The study revealed that women with ADHD are significantly more likely to experience Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD), and this connection could indicate a need for further research into the mental-health aspect of health-and-wellness, particularly regarding therapies-and-treatments for women's health.
- As the study suggests, women with ADHD have a higher risk of PMDD, and with the increasing evidence of hormonal fluctuations playing a crucial role in the presentation and management of ADHD in women, health-and-wellness professionals may need to consider PMDD screenings and treatments for women with ADHD when planning therapeutic interventions.
