ADHD and HRT

How hormone therapy may help with ADHD symptoms in menopause

Hormones and ADHD: The Hidden Connection

ADHD and menopause may seem unrelated at first glance, but they’re more connected than you might expect — and it all comes down to hormones.

Oestrogen plays a major role in regulating dopamine, the brain chemical essential for focus, motivation and emotional regulation. When oestrogen levels drop during perimenopause and menopause, dopamine regulation is disrupted — making ADHD symptoms significantly worse for many women.

Can HRT Help ADHD Symptoms?

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) is primarily used to treat classic menopause symptoms like hot flushes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness. But many women also find that HRT improves:

  • Cognitive function (less brain fog)

  • Mood stability

  • Energy and sleep

  • Attention and focus

While HRT isn’t a treatment for ADHD itself, it can support brain function and create a more stable internal environment, allowing ADHD medications and strategies to work more effectively.

What the Research Says

Studies and clinical experience suggest that when oestrogen levels are stabilised:

  • ADHD symptoms become easier to manage

  • Emotional regulation improves

  • Medications for ADHD may become more effective

  • Sleep and mood disruptions ease, reducing overall overwhelm

Women who had previously been managing well may return to a more functional baseline once hormones are balanced again.

Who Might Benefit from HRT?

HRT may be especially helpful if you are:

  • In perimenopause or menopause

  • Experiencing worsening ADHD symptoms that seem tied to hormonal changes

  • Also dealing with hot flushes, night sweats, or insomnia

  • Noticing that your ADHD medications aren’t working as well as they used to

  • Looking for a more stable foundation to manage your daily focus and emotional wellbeing

Always speak to a qualified healthcare provider to assess whether HRT is safe and suitable for you.

HRT Options

There are several types of HRT available in the UK, including:

  • Oestrogen-only (for those without a uterus)

  • Combined oestrogen and progesterone

  • Available in forms like tablets, skin patches, gels, sprays or vaginal creams

Your provider will help you choose the right type and dose for your symptoms, medical history and preferences.

Important Considerations

  • HRT is not a cure for ADHD, but it can help reduce hormone-related cognitive decline.

  • Not everyone is a candidate — your GP or menopause specialist will guide you based on your personal health.

  • HRT works best when combined with ADHD-specific treatments (like medication, therapy, or coaching).

If HRT isn’t suitable, other strategies (diet, supplements, non-hormonal treatments) can still support your cognitive health.

Our Integrated Approach

At Attention to Health, we understand the complex interaction between hormones and ADHD. Our menopause specialist will help you determine whether HRT could benefit your ADHD management — and how to integrate it into your overall treatment plan.

We’ll work with you to assess:

  • Your hormonal profile and menopause status

  • The impact of hormonal fluctuations on your cognitive symptoms

  • The best combination of support for both menopause and ADHD