The Surprising Connection Between PCOS and ADHD: What You Need to Know

If you’re navigating polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), you might be surprised to learn these two conditions may share more than just space in your health journey. At Zela, we’re all about empowering you with science-backed insights to feel your best, so let’s unpack the fascinating link between PCOS and ADHD. Understanding this connection can help you advocate for yourself and find balance in body and mind.

PCOS And ADHD, Simplified

PCOS, a hormonal condition affecting up to 1 in 10 women, brings challenges like irregular periods, excess androgens (male hormones), and ovarian cysts. It’s often tied to insulin resistance, weight gain, and mood swings. ADHD, a neurodevelopmental condition, shows up as difficulty focusing, impulsivity, or hyperactivity, affecting about 5-10% of adults, with women often underdiagnosed. While they seem unrelated – one’s hormonal, the other’s neurological – research suggests they may intersect in surprising ways, influencing how you manage both.

The PCOS-ADHD Link

The link starts with hormones, particularly oestrogen. Oestrogen plays a role in brain function, affecting dopamine – a neurotransmitter key to ADHD. Dopamine regulates attention and motivation, and low levels are common in ADHD. In PCOS, oestrogen imbalances (often too much or too little) can disrupt dopamine signalling, potentially worsening ADHD symptoms like brain fog or inattention. A 2021 study found women with PCOS were more likely to report ADHD symptoms, suggesting hormonal fluctuations may amplify cognitive challenges.1

Insulin resistance is another link. Up to 70% of women with PCOS have insulin resistance, which can increase inflammation and affect brain health. Chronic inflammation may impair executive function – think planning, focus, and impulse control – which aligns with ADHD struggles. A 2023 review noted that insulin resistance could exacerbate neurocognitive issues, potentially linking PCOS to ADHD-like symptoms.2 This overlap might explain why you feel scattered or overwhelmed, especially during hormonal shifts like ovulation or menstruation.

Then there’s the gut-brain axis. PCOS is linked to gut dysbiosis (imbalanced gut bacteria), which can influence mood and cognition. Similarly, ADHD is associated with gut microbiome changes that affect dopamine production. Gut health disruptions in PCOS could contribute to cognitive and mood symptoms that mimic or worsen ADHD. Supporting your gut with probiotics or a fibre-rich diet might just help both your hormones and focus.

The Crucial Role Of Mental Health

Mental health ties it all together. PCOS often comes with anxiety or depression due to hormonal imbalances and physical symptoms like acne or weight gain. ADHD can also increase the risk of mood disorders, as the brain’s reward system struggles. A 2015 study found women with PCOS had higher rates of anxiety and depression, which can amplify ADHD symptoms like impulsivity or emotional dysregulation.3 Managing stress with mindfulness or therapy can be a game-changer for both conditions.

What Can I Do?

Start by tracking symptoms. 

Notice if ADHD-like challenges (trouble focusing, forgetfulness) worsen with your menstrual cycle – hormonal shifts might be at play. Work with a healthcare team, including an endocrinologist and a psychiatrist, to address both PCOS and ADHD. Lifestyle tweaks can help: 

• A low-glycaemic diet with whole grains and lean proteins stabilises blood sugar, supporting insulin and brain function 

• Omega-3 supplements and probiotics may reduce inflammation and boost cognition4 

• Exercise, like yoga or walking, balances hormones and sharpens focus

• And don’t skip self-care – journaling or meditation can ground you when life feels chaotic.

You’re not alone in this. PCOS and ADHD may overlap, but with the right tools – nutrition, movement, and medical support – you can take charge. Chat with your doctor to tailor a plan that works for you. You’ve got the strength to thrive, and we’re cheering you on every step of the way!

References

1. Hergüner S, Harmancı H, Toy H. Attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder symptoms in women with polycystic ovary syndrome. Int J Psychiatry Med. 2015;50(3):317-25. doi: 10.1177/0091217415610311. 

2. Naz MSG, Rahnemaei FA, Tehrani FR et al. Possible cognition changes in women with polycystic ovary syndrome: a narrative review. Obstet Gynecol Sci. 2023;66(5):347-363. doi: 10.5468/ogs.22165. 

3. Annagür BB, Kerimoglu ÖS, Tazegül A et al. Psychiatric comorbidity in women with polycystic ovary syndrome. J Obstet Gynaecol Res. 2015;41(8):1229-33. doi: 10.1111/jog.12696. 

4. Welty FK. Omega-3 fatty acids and cognitive function. Curr Opin Lipidol. 2023;34(1):12-21. doi: 10.1097/MOL.0000000000000862.