Sign in Subscribe
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder

Maternal ADHD Linked to Increased Risk of Perinatal Depression

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Research conducted by Bendigo Health has uncovered a strong association between maternal attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and perinatal depression. The study, which analyzed 10 studies on the topic, found that women with ADHD are at a significantly higher risk of developing perinatal depression, with a prevalence rate ranging from 16.76% to 57.6%. The study also found a positive correlation between ADHD symptoms and depressive symptoms in perinatal women. However, the researchers emphasized the need for more high-quality studies to replicate and further explore these findings.

Key Takeaways:

  • The study found a significant association between maternal ADHD and perinatal depression, with a prevalence rate ranging from 16.76% to 57.6%.
  • Women with ADHD are at an increased risk of developing perinatal depression, with an odds ratio (OR) of 1.8-2.63 compared to those without the disorder.
  • The study found a positive correlation between ADHD symptoms and depressive symptoms in perinatal women.
  • The researchers emphasized the need for more high-quality studies to replicate and further explore these findings.
  • The study highlights the importance of addressing maternal ADHD as a potential risk factor for perinatal depression.
  • The research was conducted by Kaushadh Jayakody at Bendigo Health, Bendigo, VIC, Australia.
  • The study was published in the Journal of Attention Disorders (2025:10870547251383430) and is available online at jad.sagepub.com.

Statistics:

  • 16.76% to 57.6%: Prevalence rate of perinatal depression in women with ADHD.
  • 1.8-2.63: Odds ratio (OR) of developing perinatal depression in women with ADHD compared to those without the disorder.
  • 10: Number of studies included in the systematic review.
  • Medium quality: Quality rating of the majority of the included studies.
  • 2455 Teller Rd, Thousand Oaks, CA 91320, USA: Address of Sage Publications Inc, the publisher of the Journal of Attention Disorders.

Sources:

  • NewsRx. Findings from Bendigo Health Broaden Understanding of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorders (Maternal Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and Perinatal Depression: A Systematic Review). Mental Health Weekly Digest. October 27, 2025; p 183.
  • Journal of Attention Disorders. Maternal Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and Perinatal Depression: A Systematic Review. 2025:10870547251383430. Journal of Attention Disorders can be contacted at: Sage Publications Inc, 2455 Teller Rd, Thousand Oaks, CA 91320, USA.

Read more