ADHD & Pregnancy: Symptoms

The severity of your symptoms can change throughout pregnancy. Many women notice that their symptoms improve as a result of higher oestrogen levels. But some women might find that pregnancy symptoms, like difficulty sleeping, can worsen certain ADHD symptoms too.

Hormonal changes

Oestrogen and progesterone levels increase during pregnancy. Oestrogen has a direct relationship with dopamine, meaning when oestrogen levels are high, dopamine levels also rise.

Since ADHD is typically characterised by low dopamine and serotonin levels, elevated levels during pregnancy can lead to an improvement in symptoms all the way until breastfeeding. As a result, mood, motivation, focus, and concentration can improve significantly. Some women may also experience reduced anxiety, depression, and emotional challenges.¹

But not all women benefit from this improvement. Some may face increased difficulties during pregnancy. Factors such as sleep disturbances, fatigue, stress, and mood changes can impact executive functioning. Pregnant women with ADHD might struggle with attention, dealing with stress, falling asleep, and experiencing brain fog.

Furthermore, any improvements in ADHD symptoms typically subside after childbirth or breastfeeding, as oestrogen levels decrease and return to pre-pregnancy levels. Many pregnant women with ADHD are at a higher risk for postpartum depression and heightened anxiety.²

Increased challenges

While oestrogen levels can help improve ADHD, pregnancy can be very difficult for some women. Struggling to fall asleep and stay asleep can be challenging during pregnancy. This can worsen your ADHD symptoms, as a lack of quality sleep may lead to low mood, increased stress, and fatigue during the day, making executive function more difficult.³

Stress is also common during pregnancy, and this can worsen your anxiety, making it harder to function overall. Previously manageable tasks may become even more challenging. For example, routine chores can feel overwhelming, and work can become increasingly difficult.

Back to:

Overview

Read next:

Managing ADHD during pregnancy

Potential risks of ADHD & pregnancy

References: 

1. Osianlis, E., et al. (2025). ADHD and Sex Hormones in Females: A Systematic Review. Journal of Attention Disorders, 29(9), 706.  

2. Johnson, D., et al. (2025). Associations between self-reported ADHD symptoms and depression and anxiety in mothers and fathers during the postpartum period: A Canadian nationwide longitudinal study. Journal of Affective Disorders, 378, 211-219.

3. Hvolby, A. (2014). Associations of sleep disturbance with ADHD: Implications for treatment. Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorders, 7(1), 1.