Three Key Learnings:
1. Understand the impact of hormonal fluctuations in pregnancy and postpartum neurodivergent brains, neurotransmitter function, and inflammation.

2. Explore research on oestrogen’s role in dopamine and serotonin regulation, including the effect on ADHD traits and emotional regulation.

3. Learn practical, accessible support strategies tailored to the needs of neurodivergent mothers, considering sensory differences, overwhelm, and executive dysfunction.


Research shows that Neurodivergent women and AFAB’s experience heightened sensitivity to hormonal fluctuations, yet the pregnancy-to-postpartum transition remains severely under-researched. During this time, rapid changes in oestrogen, histamine, and inflammatory markers profoundly impact dopamine and serotonin regulation and increased neuroinflammation. Postpartum women and AFAB’s report experiencing cognitive challenges, emotional dysregulation, and reduced executive functioning. Research on ADHD in women and AFABs highlights oestrogen’s role in modulating dopamine and serotonin transmission and receptor sensitivity, with studies indicating that symptom exacerbation often occurs when oestrogen levels drop—such as in the luteal phase or postpartum.

However, addressing these imbalances is a unique challenge for neurodivergent mothers. Sensory sensitivities, executive dysfunction and overwhelm can make conventional treatment approaches such as dietary changes and lifestyle modifications difficult to implement. Fatigue and the mental load of caregiving further complicates self-care, often leading to worsening symptoms and increased vulnerability to postpartum depletion and mental health exacerbations.

This presentation will explore the neurobiological effects of hormonal shifts during pregnancy and postpartum, the impacts of immune dysregulation on the brain, how, neurotransmitter imbalances contribute to mood instability and sensory overload, and how nutrient deficiencies—such as iron, magnesium, and omega-3s—exacerbate these challenges.. Drawing from her clinical experience, current research, and lived experience; Caitlin will outline neuro-affirming practical strategies to support hormonal dysregulation, reduce neuroinflammation, and improve nervous system regulation in alignment with individual sensory needs and executive function differences.

Learning Objectives:

Understand the impact of hormonal fluctuations in pregnancy and postpartum neurodivergent brains, neurotransmitter function, and inflammation.

Explore research on oestrogen’s role in dopamine and serotonin regulation, including the effect on ADHD traits and emotional regulation.

Identify key blood markers and nutrient deficiencies linked to postpartum depletion and mental health challenges.

Learn practical, accessible support strategies tailored to the needs of neurodivergent mothers, considering sensory differences, overwhelm, and executive dysfunction.