ADHD, Motherhood, and Medication: What APSARD 2026 says

For women with ADHD, questions about medication may bring a sense of uncertainty when pregnancy or early motherhood is being considered. It’s common to feel anxious about doing the “right” thing — balancing personal wellbeing with concern for a future or new child — especially when guidance has historically been inconsistent or overly cautious.

You can now take heart, from conversations emerging from the American Professional Society of ADHD & Related Disorders - APSARD 2026 Annual Conference. Clinicians and researchers reviewed growing bodies of data that are helping clarify these questions and reduce unnecessary worry. Large observational studies and clinical experience suggest that many of the risks women have been concerned about may be smaller than once assumed, particularly when compared with the real challenges of untreated ADHD during pregnancy and the postnatal period.

Emerging evidence discussed at the meeting indicated that commonly used ADHD medications are associated with minimal to negligible risk to infants when used thoughtfully during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Rather than recommending abrupt discontinuation, clinicians emphasised individualised care — including dose adjustments and close monitoring — that supports both maternal mental health and infant safety.

Speakers also addressed broader anxieties related to stimulant treatment, including concerns about safety and misuse. Reassuring data presented at APSARD 2026 showed no increased risk of substance use disorders associated with appropriately prescribed stimulant medications, even when care is delivered via Telehealth.

The message from APSARD 2026 was ultimately one of reassurance: it is time that women with ADHD have evidence-based guidance that reflects both scientific data and lived experience. With clearer information, women and their clinicians can now engage in thoughtful, shared decision-making — replacing uncertainty with informed confidence.

In summary, if this is where you are at, the best thing to do is discuss with your GP how to manage pregnancy, motherhood and your ADHD medication. If you would like assistance with these discussions feel free to contact us at info@acingadhd.com

Informed by discussions reported in Psychiatric Times and presentations from the APSARD 2026 Annual Conference.