Marla Ahlgrimm | Are ADHD and Hormones Related?

ADHD and hormone-related issues are often front and center in women’s health topics. But are the two related? The answer is yes… ADHD can be influenced by hormones in women and girls, though it isn’t caused by hormones. Today, Marla Ahlgrimm takes a closer look at the complex relationship between ADHD and hormonal changes.

Estrogen

According to Marla Ahlgrimm, estrogen increases the activity of the neurotransmitters dopamine and serotonin, which are closely tied to attention, motivation, and emotional regulation. When estrogen levels are high, many women notice better focus, improved impulse control, and a greater sense of motivation. However, for women with ADHD, a drop in estrogen can often make symptoms worse. This is especially true during times of hormonal transition, when the brain may struggle to compensate for these changes.

Healthy Relationships, Healthy Women | Marla Ahlgrimm

We all know that stress can take a toll on our bodies, from sleepless nights to unexplained aches and pains and even weight gain. But what we sometimes overlook is how our relationships (especially the ones we’re closest to) affect our overall health. According to Marla Ahlgrimm, the quality of our personal connections can have a profound impact on both our mental and physical well-being.

Emotional Support Matters

A healthy relationship offers emotional support that can buffer against life’s everyday stressors. When a woman feels valued and understood by her partner, friends, or family, her body responds positively. Cortisol, the hormone released during stress, is lower when we feel secure and supported. This means less tension, fewer headaches, and even improved heart health. Marla Ahlgrimm points out that women who maintain strong emotional connections are less likely to experience anxiety or depression, which can affect everything from digestion to sleep.

Marla Ahlgrimm on Pregnancy and Perimenopause

Menopause brings on the freedom of no longer having to worry about birth control. But, Marla Ahlgrimm reminds women that menopause is not achieved overnight. It can take four years or more (some women go through perimenopause for up to a decade), and in that time, a woman can still conceive.

Facts about Perimenopause and Reproductive Health

According to Marla Ahlgrimm, fertility does decline as a woman approaches true menopause. However, the ability to conceive does not end until it's official. During the transitional phase, the ovaries may be winding down, but they still release eggs intermittently.

Marla Ahlgrimm explains that ovulation continues to occur while a woman has a menstrual period. This is true whether or not the cycle is heavier or lighter than normal, or whether it's irregular. Ovulation is a prerequisite for conception, so pregnancy remains possible.

Marla Ahlgrimm on Seasonal Changes That Affect Hormones

Fall is almost here, and that means a major shift in temperatures, daylight hours, and, surprisingly, our hormone balance. According to Marla Ahlgrimm, the changing of the seasons can have a profound impact on a woman's hormonal cycle, affecting her melatonin, serotonin, and reproductive hormone levels. This can lead to changes in mood, energy, and even her menstrual cycle.

Hormones Affected by Seasonal Changes

Melatonin

Melatonin is a hormone that helps to regulate the sleep-wake cycle. Marla Ahlgrimm says that shorter, darker days allow the body to produce more melatonin. This can lead to increased sleepiness and fatigue.

Serotonin

Often referred to as a "feel-good" hormone, serotonin is influenced by the amount of sunlight our bodies receive each day. Marla Ahlgrimm points out that as days become shorter, some women may feel more irritable or even experience Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), a condition linked to decreased sunlight.

The Lowdown on High Heels

As women, we often like to dress up to give ourselves a little confidence boost. Marla Ahlgrimm says it is important to pay attention to how some aspects of our attire might affect our safety, health, and well-being, specifically high heels.

High heels are a stylish way to elevate any outfit, from jeans and sundresses to formal attire. However, comfort should never trump safety. Marla says that ill-fitting shoes, particularly high heels, can lead to long-term foot problems and potential injuries. Understanding the risks and learning how to choose and wear the right shoes can help you look and feel your best without compromise.

Marla Ahlgrimm on the Changes Made by Motherhood

Motherhood is the ultimate goal for many women. However, one thing that many moms don't realize is that having a baby can change the body permanently, down to a cellular level. Today, women's health expert and self-help author Marla Ahlgrimm touches on just a few ways that motherhood has an effect that lasts a lifetime.

DNA Exchange

Pregnancy includes a two-way exchange of cells between a mom and baby. The immune system eliminates most of these postpartum, but Marla Ahlgrimm says a woman may carry her baby's DNA for decades after birth in a phenomenon known as fetal microchimerism. 

Breasts

One of the most noticeable changes during pregnancy and in the postpartum era are in the breasts. According to Marla Ahlgrimm, this is because pregnancy causes hormonal changes that trigger swelling and other changes in preparation for lactation. And thanks to sagging, ligament stretching, and other physical changes, some women's breasts will never look the same. Marla Ahlgrimm says they can become larger or up to a cup size smaller.

Marla Ahlgrimm Explains Ovarian Cysts

Many women get ovarian cysts, often without even knowing it. However, according to Marla Ahlgrimm, some ovarian cysts can rupture, causing pain, discomfort, and bleeding. Today, the women’s health expert explains what cysts are and what happens if you experience a rupture.

What is an ovarian cyst?

Marla Ahlgrimm: An ovarian cyst is simply a sac of fluid that forms somewhere within the body. Women develop functional cysts each month as part of their natural menstrual cycle. This happens when follicles don't release the egg and continue to grow. This is often an unknown process with no complications.