Home / Health / ADHD Triples Premenstrual Disorder Risk in Women
ADHD Triples Premenstrual Disorder Risk in Women
17 Nov
Summary
- Women with ADHD 3 times more likely to have premenstrual dysphoric disorder
- PMDD can seriously interfere with daily life, causing mood swings and depression
- Women with ADHD plus depression/anxiety at even greater risk of PMDD
According to a study conducted in 2025, women with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are around 3 times more likely to experience premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) compared to women without ADHD. PMDD is a serious condition that affects about 3% of women worldwide, causing severe symptoms like mood swings, irritability, depressed mood, and anxiety in the days before menstruation.
The researchers surveyed 715 women aged 18-34 in the UK and found that 31% of those with a clinical ADHD diagnosis also had PMDD. This rate was even higher, at 41%, among women who scored high for ADHD symptoms, regardless of a formal diagnosis. In contrast, only 9% of women without ADHD met the criteria for PMDD. The study also revealed that women with both ADHD and clinical depression or anxiety were at an even greater risk of developing PMDD.
The most common PMDD symptoms experienced by women with ADHD were irritability, feeling overwhelmed, and depression. They were also more likely to struggle with insomnia during their premenstrual period. While previous research has shown a link between ADHD and PMDD, this is the first study to identify a similar risk among women with ADHD symptoms, not just those in treatment. It also highlights the heightened vulnerability of women with ADHD plus other mental health conditions.
