Measuring Adult ADHD and Menstruation Study
Find out more about the MAAM study, part of a larger project "A life course approach to understanding ADHD among women"
ADHD and Menstrual Cycles
The MAAM (Measuring Adult ADHD and Menstruation) Study explores how ADHD symptoms may change across the menstrual cycle. While ADHD is increasingly recognised in women and people who menstruate, research has rarely considered the role of hormonal fluctuations. Many individuals report that their symptoms worsen and their medication is less effective at particular points in their cycle, but this remains poorly understood. By studying these patterns, the MAAM Study aims to build a clearer picture of how ADHD and the menstrual cycle interact—and to help shape more personalised approaches to support and treatment.
The MAAM study aims to investigate the association between the menstrual cycle and symptoms and functioning among women with ADHD
To do this, the MAAM Study will recruit 50 women with ADHD, and collect data over a 3-month period on their menstrual cycle, ADHD symptoms and other related physiological and psychological measures.
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Active Data Collection
Participants will respond to daily questionnaires on a mobile app about their ADHD symptoms, medication use, menstruation, and other associated moods and behaviours.
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We will collect data in two ways:
Passive Data Collection
An Oura smart ring device will collect precise data on participants’ physical activity and sleep patterns, and their basal body temperature, which changes predictably across the menstrual cycle.
Findings from this study could have a big impact on ADHD treatment for women, as cycle tracking, adjustments of medication dosage during certain cycle phases, and interventions to support sleep and physical activity, may be beneficial
Dr Jessica Agnew-Blais (Principal Investigator)