Autism, ADHD and the menopause.

Abstract

There is increasing awareness that neurodivergent people, particularly those who are autistic or have ADHD (ADHDers), may have a particularly difficult time during menopause. The menopausal transition can amplify aspects of neurodivergence which make everyday life challenging, and can exacerbate co-occurring mental and physical health conditions which are highly likely in these populations. In this article, we provide practical guidance for healthcare professionals towards understanding: the key features of autism and ADHD, and their relevance to a menopause context; what difficulties autistic people and ADHDers might experience during menopause; optimal management of symptoms in these neurodivergent patients, and how best to support them; and how to recognise undiagnosed individuals, and what to do next.