Sex, Relationships and ADHD
Pregnancy and ADHD
Sex, Relationships and ADHD
ADHD can affect relationships due to impulsivity, emotional sensitivity, and difficulty with attention.
Consent & Safe Sex:
• ADHD may make you more impulsive, leading to risky sexual behaviour or unplanned situations.
• Always make sure both partners fully agree to any sexual activity – consent must be clear, enthusiastic, and ongoing.
• Use contraception to prevent unplanned pregnancy and condoms to reduce the risk of STIs.
• If you are unlikely to remember to take contraceptive pills daily then consider a longer acting contraceptive such as implant/coil.
• If you are sexually active, consider regular sexual health check-ups.
FamilysupportNI.gov.uk offer contraception and abortion care for the Belfast Trust Area. You can also talk to your GP or pharmacist. Under 25s can access free sexual health and wellbeing advice from commonyouth.com based in Belfast and Coleraine.
Healthy Relationships:
-Communication is key – be honest about your needs and challenges.
-Set reminders for important dates like birthdays or anniversaries.
-Recognise signs of unhealthy relationships, such as controlling behaviour or emotional manipulation.
More information:
www.sexualhealthni.info
www.drugsandalcoholni.info
Pregnancy and ADHD
If you become pregnant or are worried about your sexual health here are some resources for discussion of options, counselling and support:
informingchoicesni.org – Informing Choices NI offer advice and support for contraception, STIs, pregnancy and abortion. They also have a helpline at 02890316100.
Commonyouth.com – offer free confidential sexual health and wellbeing services to under 25’s. Belfast contact number: 028 9032 8866.
Womansaidni.org – Woman’s aid offer confidential help and advice for those experiencing domestic abuse. Visit their website to find contact details for your local group.
If you become pregnant and are on medication for ADHD it is important that you contact your doctor as soon as possible.
They will discuss your ADHD medication options. Many of our medications are not recommended during pregnancy.