Menopause, ADHD, and Autism are three distinct conditions that affect women differently. However, some similarities in the symptoms can make it difficult to distinguish between them. Therefore, I was keen to look at each condition and discuss how they overlap.
Menopause Symptoms
Menopause and Peri Menopause is a natural biological process. It marks the end of a woman’s reproductive years. Peri Menopause means “around Menopause” and refers to the time during which your body makes the natural transition to Menopause. It is caused by a decrease in the production of estrogen and progesterone, which can lead to a range of physical and emotional symptoms. Some of the most common symptoms of menopause include:
- Hot flashes
- Night sweats
- Mood swings
- Insomnia
- Fatigue
- Memory problems
- Difficulty concentrating
ADHD Symptoms
The term ADHD implies that the core symptoms of the disorder revolve around inattention and hyperactivity. However, there are actually three subtypes of ADHD recognised by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5): predominantly inattentive presentation, predominantly hyperactive/impulsive presentation, and combined presentation. The term “ADHD” fails to capture the full range of symptomatology and can lead to misconceptions about the disorder.
Some common symptoms include:
- Difficulty concentrating
- Forgetfulness
- Disorganisation
- Impulsivity
- Restlessness
- Poor time management
- Difficulty completing tasks
Read More: ADHD is a disorder of doing what you know – Dr Barkley
Autism Symptoms
Autism has been described as a neurodevelopmental disorder that can affect social interaction, communication, and behaviour. It is a spectrum disorder, which means that the symptoms can vary widely from person to person. Some of the most common symptoms of Autism in women include:
- Difficulty with social interactions
- Sensory sensitivities
- Difficulty with emotional regulation
- Difficulty with executive function (e.g. planning, organising, and prioritising tasks)
- Repetitive behaviors or routines
- Masking their true identity in order to “Fit In”
- Overly social, to the extreme.
Why ADHD and Autism Symptoms Present Later in Life.
The reasons why ADHD and Autism symptoms present later in life for women are not fully understood. However, there are several factors that may contribute to this phenomenon. For example, women with ADHD or Autism may have developed coping mechanisms that mask their symptoms earlier in life. As they age, these coping mechanisms may become less effective, leading to the emergence of symptoms. Additionally, hormonal changes during menopause can exacerbate symptoms of ADHD and Autism, making them more noticeable.
According to one particular study, Autistic women and women with ADHD experience more difficulties during the transition into menopause. Menopausal symptoms are associated with very bumpy hormonal fluctuations, and in Autistic women, higher menopausal symptoms were associated with higher Autistic characteristics. This is similar to the findings of qualitative studies, that Autistic characteristics are stronger during the menopausal phase.
Read More: ADHD more strongly linked to anxiety and depression compared to autism – new research.
Is it Menopause, ADHD, or Autism?
Given the overlap in symptoms between menopause, ADHD, and Autism, it can be challenging to determine which condition is causing a particular symptom. However, there are some key differences that can help with diagnosis. For example, menopause-related symptoms tend to occur in women who are in their late 40s or early 50s and are experiencing hormonal changes. ADHD symptoms, on the other hand, tend to be present from childhood and persist into adulthood. Autism symptoms are also present from childhood, but they may not be diagnosed until later in life. If you are experiencing symptoms that are interfering with your daily life, it is important to seek medical advice. A healthcare professional can help you determine whether your symptoms are related to menopause, ADHD, Autism, or another condition. They can also recommend appropriate treatments to help manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life.
Resources for Women.
Finding a safe space to explore any physical symptoms and mental challenges during Peri Menopause or Menopause for all women, especially neurodivergent women can be stressful and difficult.
If you are experiencing Mental Health challenges, then you can access a mental health treatment plan from your GP or Psychiatrist. A Mental Health Care plan lets you claim up to 10 sessions with a mental health professional each calendar year.
To start with, your doctor or psychiatrist can refer you for up to 6 sessions at a time. If you need more, they can refer you for further sessions.
You may also feel more comfortable visiting a medical facility specialising in women’s health.
- Jean Hailes for Women’s Health is a national not-for-profit organisation dedicated to improving women’s health across Australia through every life stage. Having a safe space to visit to discuss both physical and mental health can be lifesaving. Clinics in Victoria
- Cabrini Women’s Mental Health, located in the Lisa Thurin Women’s Health Centre in Elsternwick, is Australia’s first private, female-only mental health hospital.
- At WHRIA (pronouced wi-ree-a), The main priority is that you feel comfortable and safe to discuss any health-related issues, whilst being treated with respect and empathy.Our care is individualized to your specific needs and you are an active part of the decision making process. Clinics in NSW
- Women’s Health Tasmania (originally named the Hobart Women’s Health Centre). We are run by women for women, with the vision of women being informed and active decision makers in our own health and well being. Clinic in Tasmania
- Australian Menopause center. The Australian Menopause Centre was founded out of a desire to provide a listening ear and ongoing care during a difficult stage in a woman’s life. National.
- West Australian Women’s Health Centre (WAWH) is a women-led specialist centre established to cater to specific women’s health needs by providing personalized care in a safe, inclusive and welcoming environment. Clinics WA.
- Womens Health clinics. Clinics NT
- SA Health offers a range of women’s health services to South Australian women living in metropolitan and rural areas. Clinics SA
- Beyond Blue- Women. Women are known for putting others first. But when it comes to your health it is important to prioritise your own needs and speak up when you need support.
Don’t wait to seek help
Menopause, ADHD, and Autism are three distinct conditions that can affect women in different ways. While menopause is a natural biological process that occurs in women in their late 40s or early 50s, ADHD and Autism are neuro-based conditions that can be diagnosed at any age. Hormonal changes during menopause can exacerbate symptoms of ADHD and Autism, making them more noticeable. If you are experiencing symptoms that are interfering with your daily life, it is important to seek medical advice.