New Research Links ADHD to Increased Risk of Severe Premenstrual Disorder in Women

A groundbreaking study conducted by researchers at Queen Mary University of London has uncovered a significant connection between attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and an increased likelihood of developing premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) in women. Published in the British Journal of Psychiatry, the research indicates that women diagnosed with ADHD are over three times more prone to experience severe premenstrual symptoms, which include intense emotional, physical, and cognitive challenges that occur in the days leading up to menstruation.

The study surveyed over 700 women across the UK using online questionnaires that assessed ADHD diagnosis and symptoms, alongside PMDD symptoms, anxiety, and depression. Findings revealed that women with a clinical ADHD diagnosis were substantially more likely to meet the criteria for PMDD compared to women without ADHD. Notably, women exhibiting high ADHD symptoms and impairment, even without a formal diagnosis, were over four times more likely to suffer from PMDD. The highest risk levels were observed among women with both ADHD and additional mental health issues such as depression and anxiety.

PMDD is a severe condition characterized by debilitating emotional states like depression, physical symptoms like fatigue, and cognitive difficulties such as concentration problems. These symptoms can significantly impair daily functioning and have been linked to an increased risk of suicidal ideation.

Lead researchers, Dr. Thomas Broughton and Dr. Jessica Agnew-Blais, emphasized the importance of their findings, particularly given the historical overlook of hormonal issues in women with ADHD. Dr. Agnew-Blais highlighted that ADHD has long been associated primarily with boys, which has led to neglecting female-specific health concerns, including hormonal fluctuations affecting women with ADHD.

The researchers recommend that women with ADHD, especially those also experiencing depression or anxiety, should be screened for PMDD to enable earlier and more targeted treatment. Further research is necessary to better understand how hormonal cycles influence ADHD symptoms and vice versa, aiming to reduce health disparities and improve diagnostic accuracy among women and girls.

The study was conducted by a team including Dr. Thomas Broughton (Queen Mary University of London), Dr. Ellen Lambert (King's College London), Dr. Jasmin Wertz (University of Edinburgh), and Dr. Jessica Agnew-Blais (Queen Mary University of London). Source: Medical Xpress.