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Chapter 20 - Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

from Section 2 - Maternal Mental Disorders

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  27 March 2026

By
Amanda Elkin  and
Sally Cubbin
Edited by
Liz McDonald ,
Roch Cantwell  and
Ian Jones
Liz McDonald
Affiliation:
East London NHS Foundation Trust
Roch Cantwell
Affiliation:
Perinatal Mental Health Service and West of Scotland Mother & Baby Unit
Ian Jones
Affiliation:
Cardiff University
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Summary

This chapter is an essential guide to recognising and treating ADHD in the perinatal period, an increasingly common scenario which specialist community and inpatient perinatal services face. We explore issues specific to assessing and treating women with ADHD. The features of how the disorder is classified are discussed, including information on how ADHD may present differently in women. The challenges of identifying ADHD in females are considered along with common comorbidities. A summary of guidance on treating this disorder in adults is included, with information on pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatment options. An outline of the essential investigations required before initiating medication for a woman is provided, along with details on the necessary ongoing physical health monitoring. Both stimulant and non-stimulant medicines are discussed with details on the various formulations available in the UK and practical tips on prescribing in the perinatal period. Specific issues to explore at follow-up are outlined. Special consideration is given to recognising and treating ADHD in the perinatal period. This includes during the pre-conceptual period, prescribing in pregnancy and the postnatal period including breastfeeding. The impact of ADHD on parenting is also considered. This is essential reading on a commonly misunderstood disorder for all perinatal clinicians.

Keywords

Perinatal medicineAttention deficit hyperactivity disorder. ADHDAttention deficit disorder. ADDImpulsivityInattentionPregnancyBreast feedingTeratogenicityNeurodevelopmentalHormonesLate diagnosisMissed diagnosisExecutive functionEmotional dysregulationMood instabilityADHD in womenADHD medicationStimulants in pregnancy

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Type
Chapter
Information
Seminars in Perinatal Psychiatry , pp. 355 - 375
Publisher: Cambridge University Press
Print publication year: 2026

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