Balancing Hormones and ADHD
In 2020, I made a significant decision: to stop taking the contraceptive pill I had been using since 2012. My curiosity about how my body would react to its natural hormone production led to this choice, and October 2020 seemed like the ideal moment.
The world was in the midst of a pandemic, and the chaos of information and political changes prompted my mother to want me home. Looking back, I am grateful; being at home during the isolation was a blessing. It seemed like the perfect time: if stopping the pill had adverse effects, my mother was nearby to help. Until 2022, I enjoyed my pill-free life without any issues, until the diagnosis of ADHD and medication crossed my path.
The diagnosis brought relief, but it also meant returning to contraception. Not forced by professionals but driven by the needs of my body. Daily quests to find the right dose of ADHD medication pointed to a connection with my menstrual cycle. Before contraception, my Ritalin dose was 25 mg, sometimes sufficient, sometimes too much. Research, including consulting "Dr. Internet," and discussions with my healthcare providers yielded the same answer: hormonal fluctuations influence ADHD symptoms.
Week 1 after menstruation went well, week 2 was great, week 3 (oestrogen decline) brought unrest, and week 4 (menstruation) was challenging. Two good weeks, two searching weeks.
As an example, without contraception, I would take my first dose of the day around 7:45. I had a routine of arriving at school around 8:15 to start working by 8:30. The Ritalin I use works for a total of 4 hours, and I need to take it every 3.5 hours to avoid it completely wearing off, and I have to wait for the new round to kick in. But in week 3 of my cycle, by 11 am, I was already overwhelmed and overstimulated; my medication wasn't working as it should. Weeks 3 and 4 were filled with emotional fluctuations, and I can tell you, it was not pleasant. Not for me, and certainly not for my friends.
There is little research on ADHD and hormonal influences, but my experience convinces me of a connection. Back on contraception, I experience more stability with my medication—a reassuring factor amid uncertainties. My journey shows that balancing hormones and brains is an art. While researchers explore the connection, I share my story in the hope that others find recognition and that there is more understanding of the complexity of ADHD, hormones, and the quest for stability.
As I navigate between hormones and brains, I realize that we all have unique journeys. My hope is that by sharing this, others feel less alone in their experiences. Let's embrace the complexity of ADHD and hormones and strive for a world where understanding and support are the norm.
Thank you for taking the time to read my story. Do you have similar experiences or questions? I'm curious about your perspectives and stories. Feel free to leave a comment, as your voice is always welcome here. Let's create a space together for openness and understanding. See you soon in the comments!
