ADHD, PMDD or Hormones? Why Your Symptoms Change Throughout Your Cycle with Coach Amy Needham

Episode #68 In this episode of Holistic Health Hub, Dani is joined by Amy, a health science and clinical nutrition specialist, to explore how ADHD symptoms can shift across the menstrual cycle and how they often overlap with PMDD, trauma, histamine issues, and gut health. Why it works: it taps into a highly relatable pain point, then gives listeners a clear framework for understanding their symptoms instead of blaming themselves.What you’ll learn:Why menstrual cycle phases can intensify ADHD-like symptomsHow PMDD differs from ADHD, and where they overlapWhy women are often underdiagnosed or misdiagnosedHow trauma and PTSD can affect attention, regulation, and nervous system stateThe role of histamine, gut health, and inflammation in symptom severityPractical ways to support your cycle through nutrition, movement, tracking, and therapyADHD involves neurodevelopmental and neurotransmitter differencesPMDD is linked more to receptor-site sensitivity and hormone responseA person can have both, which can intensify symptoms:Track your cycle and symptoms in detailWork with a qualified practitioner for a personalized approachChallenge the narrative you hold about your symptoms or diagnosisKey topics covered- ADHD and the menstrual cycle - Amy explains how estrogen, progesterone, and neurochemistry can affect motivation, focus, memory, emotional regulation, and impulsivity throughout the cycle. She also discusses why symptoms may worsen in the luteal phase, after ovulation, or during perimenopause.- PMDD vs ADHD - The conversation breaks down the important distinction between PMDD and ADHD:Why women are often missed- The episode highlights how ADHD in females is often internalized rather than externalized, leading to late diagnosis, masking, perfectionism, people-pleasing, and burnout.Trauma, PTSD, and neurodivergence.- Amy explains how trauma can amplify ADHD-like patterns by changing threat regulation, increasing hypervigilance, and affecting the brain’s response to stress.- Histamine and gut health - The discussion also explores how histamine can contribute to anxiety, headaches, skin reactions, insomnia, and fatigue, especially when gut health is compromised.- Practical strategies shared - Amy gives three core recommendations.Resources & Links:@coachneedmfit on InstagramEmail: [email protected] - This podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes only and does not substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult with your health care professional before making changes to your health care routine.Don't forget to leave us a review, like, share and subscribe to join me for more content bringing you to your happiest, healthiest and highest self!Follow us for more Holistic Health Content:Instagram:@danibulian_health@hausofholistichealth@holistichealthhubpodcastBook in with Dani: www.hausofholistichealth.com.auIf you loved today’s episode please like us tag us on Insta @danibulian_health & @holistichealthhub_podcast