Attention-Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

Last Update: 12 Jun 2025

Condition

Table of content

1. What is it? 2. Why managing? 3. Non-Medical Options 4. Medications 5. Breastfeeding/ chestfeeding 6. Key Takeaways 7. Limits of Research

Welcome to our Fact Sheet on ADHD during pregnancy and breastfeeding or chestfeeding. The information is based on current research and may be updated as new scientific knowledge emerges. It’s important to remember that the content shared here does not replace personalized advice from healthcare professionals.

1. What is ADHD?

ADHD stands for Attention-Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder. It often begins in childhood, usually before age 12. ADHD affects how people pay attention, control their action (impulsivity), and manage their energy.

Worldwide, about 3 out of 100 adult women tooltip and 4 out of 100 gender-diverse adults assigned female at birth tooltip have ADHD.

ADHD is not just about being distracted. it also involves changes in attention that are closely tied to motivation. Sometimes, they can be easily distracted and other times, very focused (called hyper-focus). The level of focus depends on their energy and their interest.

ADHD symptoms vary widely but usually fall into two categories:

You, Me, Baby: Practical Solutions to Take Care of Your Mental Health

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Table 1. ADHD categories and symptoms.

Category	Common Symptoms
Attention challenges (Fluctuating Attention)	Being easily distracted Forgetting things often Losing things like keys or phone Having trouble focusing on details Feeling disorganized or unsure what to do first (trouble prioritizing tasks) Struggling to finish tasks Sometimes focusing too much on one thing (called “hyperfocus”)
Hyperactivity-Impulsivity	Feeling restless or always moving Fidgeting or not being able to sit still Having racing thoughts or inner tension Interrupting others, talking too much or inappropriately Difficulty waiting or being patient Making quick decisions without thinking of the results (called impulsivity), leading to rushed decisions and overlooked details

2. Why is it important to manage ADHD during pregnancy?

Having ADHD can make some things harder during pregnancy, like staying organized, managing stress, or remembering appointments. It’s also linked to a higher chance of unplanned pregnancies, which can sometimes increase health risks for both the parent and the baby. But the good news is: It’s possible to have a healthy pregnancy while living with ADHD.

Getting support and learning how to manage your symptoms can help you:

Feel less stressed
Take care of your mental health
Improve your well-being and your baby’s health

Talking early with your healthcare team can help you make a plan. This may include:

Adjusting medications
Creating healthy habits
Finding people who can support you

Understanding Risks in Pregnancy

Every pregnancy has some natural risk of complications like miscarriages (loss of the baby), premature birth (baby comes before 37 weeks), congenital malformations (birth defects), and other complications. These risks can happen in any pregnancy for many reasons, unrelated to ADHD or its treatment. This is called the background risk. Research helps us estimate these risks and compared them with the risks when ADHD is not treated or supported.

Table 2 show a summary of what research tell us. Remember, these are possible risks – not definite outcomes – and can be influenced by factors like age, genetics, ethnicity, habits (e,g. smoking, alcohol), and other medical conditions.

Table 2: Potential risks linked to untreated ADHD during pregnancy.

For who?	What?	What does research say?
Pregnant person	Mental health	Untreated ADHD can lead to more stress, anxiety, difficulty managing tasks, and feeling overwhelmed.
	Daily life	It may be harder to keep track of appointments or stay organized.
	Risky behaviour	ADHD-related impulsivity or poor planning may increase risky behaviour like smoking, poor nutrition, or impaired driving.
	Gestational hypertension	Some studies found a higher chance of having high blood pressure in pregnant individuals with ADHD.
	Miscarriage	Some studies suggest a small increase in risk, but results are not clear.
Unborn baby	Premature birth	Some studies found a slightly increased risk of preterm birth (before 37 weeks).
	Growth	Some studies show a small chance of low birth weight (5 pounds and 8 ounces or 2,500 g).
	Congenital malformations	Most research shows no strong evidence that ADHD itself increases the risk of congenital malformations. One study found an increased chance for malformation others did not.
Future child	Brain development	Research shows that children with a parent who has ADHD may have a higher chance of having ADHD too or related conditions.
Family	Getting ready for parenting	Having ADHD can make some parts of becoming a parent, like building a strong foundation for handling challenges, more difficult.

3. What can I do to manage ADHD besides medications?

If you are planning a pregnancy or are already pregnant, it’s a good idea to create an ADHD support plan. You can do this with your partner, a support person, and your healthcare team, just like you would prepare for birth.

Start by thinking about what makes your symptoms worse, like being tired or stress. Knowing your triggers early and planning how to manage them can help you feel more supported and less overwhelmed during pregnancy.

Medication can be very helpful, but some people also use non-medication strategies. These strategies do not replace medication, but they can be a good addition to your plan, especially during pregnancy.

Here are some strategies you might find helpful:

Learn about ADHD (psychoeducation): Understanding how ADHD affects your daily life can help you and your family better manage symptoms and explore treatment options.
Therapy (CBT): A therapist can help you navigate emotions, stay focused, and deal with day-to-day challenges.
Stay Organized: Use planners, checklists, or phone apps to track appointments and tasks. These time management tools can support focus and reduce mental overload.
Get enough sleep: Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time each day. A steady routine can help you feel more rested and clear-headed.
Manage stress: Take time for mindfulness activities like walking, breathing exercises, stretching, or gentle movement to reduce anxiety.
Ask for support: Reach out to your therapist or healthcare provider if you’re struggling. Regular check-ins can help you adjust your plan as needed.

It’ easy to forget self-care during pregnancy but taking time for yourself also support your baby. Try to rest when you need to, ask for help, and talk openly to your healthcare provider (before and throughout your pregnancy). Don’t hesitate to ask all your questions. Together, you can find what works best for you and your pregnancy.

4. Medications prescribed for managing ADHD

Sometimes, when ADHD symptoms are more intense, medications can be prescribed to help improve focus and energy regulation.

There is no perfect risk-free decision when choosing whether or not to take ADHD medication during pregnancy. It’s important to look at both the benefits and possible risks. Not treating ADHD can also cause problems (see section 2), so it’s a decision to make with your healthcare team.

In Canada, ADHD is usually treated with psychostimulants (like amphetamine-based or methylphenidate-based medications), while non-psychostimulants are typically second-line options.

What does research say?

The recommendations of ADHD medications during pregnancy varies depending on the specific medication. Research shows:

Psychostimulants (like methylphenidate, amphetamines): Most research show no increased risk of malformations for the baby. But, some studies show a possible small risk of low birth weight, preterm birth, preeclampsia tooltip, or, rarely, certain heart conditions in newborns. A recent study tooltip shows ADHD medications should not increase risk for the baby brain development.
Non-Psychostimulants (like atomoxetine, bupropion): Most studies report a lack of strong association with major congenital malformations. They may be a good alternative but there are not a lot of research so close monitoring is recommended.

It’s important to know that most studies about ADHD medications during pregnancy are small, or include people taking different medications at the same time. This means the results are not always clear. However, overall research shows that the risks are usually low, especially for psychostimulant medications. In many cases, the risks may come more from ADHD itself than the medications.

The table below lists common ADHD medications in Canada. Your healthcare team will help you find the safest and most effective treatment for you. For more details about a specific medication, you can also read its factsheet or ask your pharmacist or doctor.

Table 3. Some ADHD medications available in Canada

Medication Types	Medication Names	Brand names
Psychostimulants	Methylphenidate	e.g. Concerta^®, Biphentin^®, Foquest^®, Ritalin^®
	Dextroamphetamine	e.g. Dexedrine^®
	Dextroamphetamine-Amphetamine	e.g. Adderall^®
	Lisdexamfetamine	e.g. Vyvanse^®
Non-Psychostimulants	Atomoxetine	e.g. Strattera^®
Non-Psychostimulants	Bupropion	e.g. Wellbutrin^®

*These medications are not all recommended during pregnancy. Always talk to your doctor before making changes.

How do I know which one to take?

To treat ADHD safely during pregnancy, it’s important to work closely with your healthcare team. Have regular check-ins to see if your medication needs to be changed or adjusted. Any changes to your treatment should carefully weigh the benefits and risks for both you and your baby.

If you are already taking ADHD medication, don’t stop taking it suddenly. This could make your symptoms come back or get worse. Stopping ADHD medication during pregnancy has also been linked to more depressive symptoms, even if you continue taking antidepressants. Instead, talk to your healthcare team to review your treatment plan.

If you’re unsure about your treatment or have questions, it’s best to discuss them your healthcare team. They can help you look at the benefits of your medications and any possible risks. Whether you talk to a pharmacist, nurse, physician, or midwife, they are there to support you and help you make an informed decision for your health and your baby’s health.

5. Will I be able to breastfeed or chestfeed?

Most people with ADHD can safely breastfeed/ chestfeed if they choose to. But ADHD symptoms like forgetting things, feeling disorganized, or having trouble focusing can sometimes make feeding routines more difficult. Getting extra support can be helpful

Some psychostimulant medications can pass into breast milk/ human milk. These amounts are usually considered very small, but studies are limited and results can vary. According to research these medications are unlikely to harm your baby. But it’s still important to watch for signs like irritability, poor feeding, or sleep issues, especially in the first few weeks. Because these medicines can lower appetite, your doctor may also want to check that your baby is growing well. Some ADHD medications might also lower milk supply by affecting a hormone called prolactin. If you stopped your medication during pregnancy, some experts recommend waiting until your baby after the newborn stage to restart, if possible.

Most non-psychostimulant medications haven’t been studied enough to confirm they’re safe during breastfeeding/ chestfeeding. But some, like bupropion, is usually considered compatible with breastfeeding/ chestfeeding.

To make the best choice for you and your baby, talk with your doctor, pharmacist, midwife, or lactation consultant. They will help you look at the benefices and any possible risks so you can make an informed decision. If you have any questions related to breastfeeding/ chestfeeding, don’t hesitate to speak with your healthcare team.

Key Takeaways

ADHD affects attention, energy, and self-control. During pregnancy, these symptoms may change or become more noticeable.
Managing ADHD can help you feel better, more prepared as a parent, and support your baby’s health.
Making a personal plan with healthy habits, therapy tools (like CBT or mindfulness), and regular check-ins with your healthcare team can really help.
Some ADHD medications (like methylphenidate and amphetamines) are usually low-risk during pregnancy. Others (like atomoxetine, bupropion) may also be options, but we know less about them.
Most people with ADHD can breastfeed or chestfeed, although extra support may help with feeding routine. Some medications can pass into milk, but your healthcare provider can help you find the best option for you and your baby.
Working with your healthcare team helps you make the best choices, monitor your health, and adjust your treatment as needed to have a healthy pregnancy while managing your ADHD.

Research Is Great, But It Is Not Perfect

Making informed health decisions also involves considering the current state of scientific knowledge. Here are some considerations, found by our team, on the quantity and qualities of studies available so far on ADHD during pregnancy:

Few large studies: There aren’t many large, controlled studies on ADHD during pregnancy because it’s difficult to do these studies safely with pregnant people.
Not enough long-term research: Most studies look at short-term outcomes only. There’s still gaps in understanding how ADHD during pregnancy may affect postpartum health, the bond between parent and baby, and the baby’s development as they grow.
Unclear medication effects: We need more research on how ADHD medications taken during pregnancy or breastfeeding/ chestfeeding might affect infant growth and brain development.
Lack of diversity in studies: Many past studies did not include women or gender-diverse people, ignored differences in ADHD types and treatment, and did not look at how culture, income, or identity may affect experiences. Because of this, it’s hard to know if the results apply to all pregnant people, especially those from marginalized communities.

Researchers are learning more every year, but there’s still a lot we don’t know. That’s why your experience matters, personalized care is important, and asking questions and staying informed helps you make the best choices for you and your baby.

Acknowledgement

A special thanks to Dr Mathieu Pilon, neuropsychologist and professor at the University of Sherbrooke, for its revision of this factsheet.

Other online resources

CADDRA is an independent, not-for-profit, resource organization for medical, healthcare and research professionals with an interest in the field of ADHD. https://www.caddra.ca/
The Centre for ADHD Awareness Canada (CADDAC) provides information and resources for individuals with ADHD, their families, educators and other stakeholders. caddac.ca
Quebec-based physician and CADDRA member Annick Vincent provides information in both English and French through www.attentiondeficit-info.com
PANDA is a French-language network of associations that work together to meet the needs of individuals with ADHD and their families. associationpanda.qc.ca
Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (CHADD), is an American organization providing education, advocacy and support for individuals with ADHD. In addition to its website, CHADD also publishes a variety of printed materials to keep members and professionals current on research advances, medications and treatments affecting individuals with ADHD. chadd.com
ADHD Families, based in Alberta, Canada, provides information and resources for families on ADHD. adhdfamilies.ca

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