ADHD and hormones (Catie Osborn’s story)

Catie Osborn’s ADHD flew under the radar until she had to get an ovary removed in her late 20s. Left with one ovary ( “Han Solo-vary”), she experienced a hormone shift that made her ADHD symptoms much more noticeable.

Catie is a former “gifted kid” who excelled in school. Growing up, she didn’t fit ADHD stereotypes, aside from being a bit messy. Once she was diagnosed, she started seeing ADHD flags everywhere. Hear what she’s learned from her experience and her work, like how hormones — especially in people who get periods — can impact ADHD symptoms.

Catie, aka catieosaurus on TikTok, is a certified sex educator, neurodivergency specialist, and co-host of the podcast Catie and Erik’s Infinite Quest: An ADHD Adventure.

To find a transcript for this episode and more resources, visit the episode page at Understood.

We love hearing from our listeners. Email us at ADHDAha@understood.org.

Related resources

• ADHD and eating disorders
• ADHD and messiness
• ADHD in girls

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