The Association Between Maternal Progesterone Use During Pregnancy and Offspring Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Risk

Abstract

Objective:

Previous animal studies have suggested a link between progesterone exposure and the development of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). This study clinically evaluated the effect of progesterone use during pregnancy on the risk of ADHD in children.

Methods:

In this prospective case-control study, 97 children diagnosed with ADHD and 194 age- and sex-matched controls were included. Maternal progesterone use—via suppositories or injections—during pregnancy was assessed. Data were analyzed using SPSS.

Results:

The mean age was slightly higher in the ADHD group, but not significantly. Male predominance was observed among ADHD cases, although not statistically significant. While neonatal hospitalization rates were similar, the duration was longer in the ADHD group (p = .009). Cesarean delivery and lower maternal education levels were significantly more common in the ADHD group (p = .004 and p = .013, respectively). No significant difference in overall progesterone use was found between ADHD and control groups (17.5% vs. 19.1%; p = .749). Injectable progesterone was used in 5.2% of ADHD cases and 10.8% of controls (p = .130), and the timing of use across pregnancy trimesters did not differ significantly (p = .493). Vaginal suppository use was also comparable (15.5% vs. 12.4%; p = .465). However, continuous progesterone use throughout all trimesters was more frequently reported among ADHD cases (20.0% vs. 4.2%), suggesting a possible association that needs further investigation.

Conclusion:

Unlike findings from animal models, progesterone use during pregnancy does not appear to be associated with ADHD development. Still, prolonged exposure may warrant further investigation.