What to Know About ADHD During or After Pregnancy

It could be that your symptoms become more prominent in the first trimester or following childbirth due to hormonal changes.

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) symptoms are affected by hormonal fluctuations such as those that occur in and after pregnancy.

Although researchers don't know why increases in estrogen tend to reduce ADHD symptoms, increases in estrogen are known to boost the severity of these symptoms.

Increasing estrogen levels in the third and second trimesters can reduce many symptoms. But as estrogen levels drop after pregnancy, ADHD symptoms may surge again. The increased progesterone levels during the first trimester can also trigger more evident symptoms.

Your doctor might also suggest you discontinue certain ADHD medication while pregnant, which could aggravate symptoms.

Here's a guide to living with ADHD during pregnancy and even after.

Can pregnancy cause the development of ADHD?

Currently, no evidence suggests that pregnancy could cause the onset of ADHD.

However, certain people with ADHD are more likely to be diagnosed in this period.

As symptoms like inattention or anxiety forgetfulness can be more prominent in the first trimester or after birth, pregnant women might be more likely to bring these symptoms to a medical professional, which may lead to the diagnosis.

The potential indicators to be looking for

If you're still waiting for an official diagnosis of ADHD but you suspect that you're experiencing symptoms, There are a few things to be aware of.

ResearchTrusted Source suggests that attention-distraction symptoms may be more prominent during pregnancy. It could be an increase in forgetfulness, difficulty concentrating, or difficulty completing tasks.

When estrogen levels fall following a baby's birth, dopamine levels drop as well, which can result in an increase in symptoms of depression, including depression or low self-esteem.

Be aware that childbirth and pregnancy can be stressful experiences despite any additional issues. It's not uncommon for these times to be accompanied by changes in your mental health.

Whether your symptoms may be related to ADHD or not, you should consider bringing the issue to the attention of your healthcare team. They may be able to assist you in making a diagnosis or aid you in creating new strategies for coping.

Finding a diagnosis

While ADHD generally manifests in the teen years, however, more people are receiving diagnoses in their later years. This is especially the case for women, who are less likely to be diagnosed when they are children because of gender discrimination and other reasons.

If you believe you may be suffering from symptoms of ADHD, consult your primary medical doctor. They will conduct an initial examination of what you're experiencing and your medical background. Based on their evaluation, they might recommend you to an expert in mental health for further follow-up.

The mental healthcare professional can assess your symptoms based on various behavioral rating scales that include the Brown Attention Deficit Disorder Symptoms Assessment Scale (BADDS) for Adults or the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS v1.1)

Alternatives to treatment

ADHD is often treated using amphetaminesulfate (Adderall) and methylphenidate (Ritalin). It is common to use medication in conjunction with behavioral therapy.

The fact is, using these drugs in the early stages of gestation is associated with a higher chance of having certain congenital disabilities, such as:

• gastroschisis (a rare congenital disability that can cause organs to protrude from the body)
• omphalocele
• transverse limb deficiency

The chance of developing congenital disabilities resulting from ADHD medications remains minimal. Experts also try comprehending the potential risks of taking ADHD medications while pregnant or nursing.

A 2021 Trusted Source review says doctors shouldn't always suggest pregnant or breastfeeding patients suffering from moderate to severe ADHD stop taking their medication.

If you're given an ADHD diagnosis, your treatment team will review a variety of treatments to determine the most effective and safe method for you.

Be aware that your health, not just your children's, is crucial. If you're taking medication to treat ADHD, Don't quit without speaking with a doctor first. They can assist you in weighing the potential risks of halting or resuming treatment.

Bottom line

The hormone levels fluctuate between pregnancy and birth, so there is a chance that you may notice a change in ADHD symptoms, too.

In the first trimester, you might experience more noticeable symptoms, or you may experience symptoms at first. In the third and second trimesters, you might notice that symptoms diminish, but they increase following the birth.

As with other mother-related mental health issues, experts have much information to discover about the impact of pregnancy ADHD. Don't be afraid to discuss new or deteriorating symptoms with your healthcare team. Together, you can devise a plan for safely managing your symptoms.