ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition that usually appears before a child reaches nine years of age. It is characterised by hyperactivity, inattentiveness, impulsivity and behavioural problems. Just in case you have come across the word ADHD several times, but you are wondering what it means, ADHD is an abbreviation of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder.
Women with ADHD might find it difficult to handle this disorder during pregnancy, as the use of ADHD medications has the potential to increase the risk of the baby developing birth defects during the pregnancy. The purpose for this article is to highlight various ways that women can cope with ADHD symptoms during pregnancy.
What Causes Of Attention-deficit/hyperactivity Disorder
The cause of ADHD is unknown at this time; however, experts have identified some possible causes of ADHD that includes the intake of tobacco and alcohol during pregnancy, exposure to environmental risks and premature delivery.
How Do You Know Someone Has Adhd
The symptoms of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder are grouped into three categories:
- Inattention – difficulty in listening to others, forgetfulness, difficulty getting along with others, poor organizational skills, being easily distracted, and short attention span.
- Impulsivity: Taking risks often, blurting out answers.
- Hyperactivity: Talking excessively, forgetting things often, difficulty in completing tasks, difficulty staying quiet, fidgets unduly.
How To Deal With Adhd During Pregnancy
Living with ADHD as a pregnant woman can be very challenging. Follow these guidelines to control your ADHD and get a kick out of your pregnancy;
- Exercise often. One of the effective ways to manage attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder during pregnancy is to exercise, as it will help to improve mental and physical health. 15-20 minutes of daily exercise will go a long way in coping with ADHD symptoms.
- Opt for mental behavioural therapy. Talking to qualified practitioners will help to improve the ADHD symptoms better. This type of therapy will help you to develop cognitive reasoning, time management and organization.
- Get enough sleep. Sleeping is identified to help subdue symptoms of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder in pregnant women with ADHD; however, they may find it a bit difficult to sleep. The following are tips to get regular sleep – reduce sugar and alcohol intake, avoid screen time at least two hours before sleeping, engage in exercise for at least 20 minutes daily, have a warm bath before sleeping and make sure the bedroom is cool and free from any distraction.
- Stick to a healthy food lifestyle. Studies show that maintaining a healthy food lifestyle during pregnancy can help to improve attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder during pregnancy. Food that contains proteins (cheese, eggs and meat), complex carbohydrates (fruits and vegetables), and Omega fatty acids (Walnuts, canola oils and cold-water white fish) will improve concentration. Sticking to a gluten-free diet will improve your intellect and behavior.
- Take Vitamins frequently. In addition to your regular vitamin intake, make sure to add magnesium and vitamin B6 to your daily dose with the guidance of your doctor. These vitamins help to get stabilized and less hyperactive.
The recommendations above will help you to get the best out of your pregnancy journey. If you have any further concerns feel free to reach out to your health care provider.
If your ADHD is getting in the way of living your best life, do not hesitate to seek further evaluation and treatment. We offer pregnancy focused ADHD therapy and ADHD treatment, so call us at (833) 931-1716 to learn more when you are ready to take your first step towards healing.
