Hormones & ADHD in Perimenopause: What’s Really Happening?

We’re seeing a rising number of women in their late 30s to 50s reporting worsening ADHD-like symptoms—especially during perimenopause. Why? The short answer: Hormonal shifts are impacting brain chemistry in big ways.

 The Science Behind It

Oestradiol (a form of oestrogen) plays a critical role in brain health:

• Boosts dopamine (key for focus, motivation, and reward)

• Supports serotonin (regulates mood and emotional stability)

• Protects cognitive function

Progesterone acts as a natural calmative, supporting GABA (a calming neurotransmitter) and helping regulate the nervous system.

During perimenopause:

• Oestradiol fluctuates wildly before it ultimately declines.

• Progesterone steadily declines, often becoming deficient first.

These changes can:

• Unmask previously compensated neurodivergent traits (like ADHD)

• Worsen existing symptoms—especially executive function, mood regulation, and focus

• Cause symptoms to emerge for the first time, leading many to seek a late ADHD diagnosis

 The Hormonal Roller Coaster

Many women report ADHD symptoms getting worse:

• Before their period (when oestrogen and progesterone are both low)

• In perimenopause (due to unpredictable and declining hormones)

Common symptoms:

• Brain fog

• Procrastination & poor time management

• Overwhelm

• Emotional reactivity

• Motivation drops

 What Can You Do?

Balancing hormones can be a game-changer for managing these symptoms.

• Testing matters: The DUTCH test offers a deep look at your hormone and adrenal profiles.

• Support your brain: Targeted nutrition, bio/body identical hormones, and lifestyle changes can stabilize both hormones and ADHD symptoms.

• You’re not imagining it: This is real and physiological.

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