Postnatal depression (PND) affects many new parents and should be a consideration in care during pregnancy and beyond but, with mounting evidence that this experience can be more complex, serious, and under-recognised in new parents with ADHD, we must explore this condition further to better support those affected. While links between ADHD and mental health difficulties are better understood, the impact of ADHD on experiences of pregnancy and early parenthood have been comparatively neglected by studies. Emerging research reveals an urgent need to better understand and support parents navigating both ADHD and PND.
Table of contents
- ADHD’s impact on depression and hormonal sensitivity
- What data shows about ADHD and early parenthood
- The potential impact of parental ADHD on infants and children
- What this means to us
- Looking for support with ADHD?
ADHD’s impact on depression and hormonal sensitivity
Even before pregnancy, ADHD is strongly associated with depression, especially in those assigned female at birth. One long-term study found that adolescent girls with ADHD were up to three times more likely to experience major depression than their neurotypical peers. These depressive episodes also tended to be more severe and longer lasting. ADHD in women often remains underdiagnosed until adulthood, partly because symptoms present differently, such as more internalized struggles like emotional dysregulation and inattentiveness.
Many women with ADHD also experience conditions related to hormonal shifts, such as premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). Research shows a high comorbidity between ADHD and PMDD, highlighting a unique sensitivity to hormonal changes, with as many as 46% of those with ADHD in the study also experiencing PMDD. This makes prevalence in those with ADHD six times higher than in neurotypical populations.
These hormonal fluctuations, which also occur postnatal, as well as an increased risk of depression overall could partly explain why women with ADHD are more vulnerable to PND symptoms.
What data shows about ADHD and early parenthood
A large Swedish registry study found that women with ADHD were over five times more likely to be diagnosed with postnatal depression than women without ADHD. The same women also had a much higher risk for postnatal anxiety, even when controlling for other psychiatric conditions. These findings suggest that ADHD is an independent and significant risk factor for PPD even after adjusting for age, socioeconomic status, and prior mental health issues.
The links aren’t only limited to after the birth of a child. ADHD symptoms during pregnancy have been shown to negatively impact a woman’s quality of life, particularly through increased risk of depression. Alongside this, studies have found that those with ADHD have higher rates of pregnancy complications than their neurotypical peers. In comparison, those receiving medication for their ADHD see a decreased risk of complications compared to those not taking medication for ADHD.
Alongside these risks, the quality of life reported in early parenthood sees interesting links to ADHD. Mothers with ADHD often report higher parenting stress, especially in the first year of their child’s life. Factors like poor sleep, low social support, and difficult infant temperament only amplify distress. One study also revealed that women with ADHD are more likely to experience both PMDD and PPD after their first childbirth.
The potential impact of parental ADHD on infants and children
The effects of maternal mental health extend beyond the experience of the mother. Research has shown that parental postnatal depression and anxiety can significantly delay a child’s emotional, cognitive, and motor development without intervention. One study found that toddlers born to women presenting with both ADHD and depressive signs experienced more difficulties with mood problems and reduced focus and attention, making early identification and intervention for mothers even more crucial.
Other studies have shown that postnatal depression in parents can be linked to the child having an increased risk of ADHD, though more research is necessary in this area.
What this means to us
This research demonstrates the importance of offering the appropriate care to patients with ADHD throughout their lives. Understanding the potential interaction between ADHD and hormonal sensitivity can better inform care given to patients assigned female at birth who may also be struggling with PMDD or depression. It is crucial to ensure that when those diagnosed with ADHD become pregnant, they receive the resources and support to facilitate a more positive experience of pregnancy and early parenthood.
It’s clear that ADHD should be more carefully considered in pregnancy, childbirth and parenthood. As a mental healthcare provider, we always work to recognise and respond to these unique challenges to ensure that the correct support is in place. Supporting parents with ADHD isn’t just about improving their mental health, it’s also a critical step in supporting the health and development of the next generation.
Looking for support with ADHD?
If you are looking for an ADHD assessment or treatment tailored to your ADHD experiences, find out more on our assessments page.
If you would like more information about the support available to you, you can request a free confidential call back from one of our trained assistant psychologists.
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