Is your pregnancy triggering ADHD?

Do you need help with clear focus? Are you also often lost or feel impulses with your actions and words? You should check for a mental health condition called Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. According to the World Health Organization, it affects 5–8% of children, mostly boys, and often lasts into adulthood. What distinguishes this disorder from usual impulsiveness or hyperactivity is the regularity of being fidgety, always on the go, and unknowingly loud. You might find it difficult to focus on a single task and might be all over the place/disorganized. 

ADHD can be the product of a host of factors. Genetics can play a role in ADHD; it runs in the family. At the same time, this neurological condition depends on one’s environment growing up. Premature babies are also at risk of developing ADHD. Intake of substances like nicotine and alcohol or unintentional consumption of lead can also risk our minds to ADHD.

With time, if not diagnosed, this disorder can disrupt your life. You might get restless with minor inconveniences, your relationships might suffer, and you might experience anxiety. You can have difficulty making small decisions. You can begin small. A therapy session might help. If it worsens, you can consult a doctor and take medication. 

How can ADHD hinder your pregnancy?

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In all this chaos, if you are planning to get pregnant, you must inform your doctor about your mental health disorders. As this disorder is genetically transferred, it would be great to consult a medical professional regarding this.  In recent years, treatment for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in adults and children has grown. Because of this, an increasing proportion of women are either diagnosed with ADHD and begin taking medication during their reproductive years, or they are treated for the disorder before then.

As for during the pregnancy,  many symptoms tend to subside during the second and third trimesters when there is a gradual increase in estrogen. However, symptoms of ADHD may resurface after pregnancy when estrogen levels decline. Severe symptoms may also be brought on by elevated progesterone levels in the first trimester.

Your primary concern should be to identify the triggers. People may be more likely to discuss symptoms such as inattentiveness, anxiety, or forgetfulness with a healthcare provider during or after the first trimester, leading to a diagnosis.

Taking medication might not be the best way to treat ADHD during pregnancy. These medicines can cause complications with childbirth and hence might not be advised. Pregnancy in itself is a difficult and engaging journey. Talking to your doctor and seeking help through therapy can be helpful.