Talking about these experiences is the first step toward understanding your body, getting to know your menstrual cycle as a neurodivergent person, and lifting the stigma around periods.
Written and edited in collaboration with Marie-Pier Deschênes
Having your period isn’t just about cramps or feeling low on energy. For many neurodivergent people, whether you have ADHD, autism, or heightened sensory sensitivity, the menstrual cycle can make everything feel more intense. Your hormones shift, emotions feel bigger, and your senses can get so heightened that it might feel overwhelming sometimes.
Even though this is really common, it’s definitely not talked about enough. Talking about these experiences is the first step toward understanding your body, getting to know your menstrual cycle as a neurodivergent person, and lifting the stigma around periods.
Neurodivergence and the Menstrual Cycle: Why Sensitivity Can Spike
Being neurodivergent means your brain works differently and you experience the world in your own way. That might include ADHD, autism, or sensory processing differences, and it often comes with stronger-than-usual emotions or reactions to what is around you.
At the same time, your menstrual cycle brings natural hormonal shifts. Rising and falling estrogen and progesterone can affect your mood, your energy, and how you handle stress.
When you put these together, it’s no wonder things feel amplified! During certain parts of your cycle, you might notice:
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Your emotions feeling more intense
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Your senses reacting more strongly, such as lights, sounds, smells, or textures that normally would not bother you suddenly do
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Your mind and body feeling more tired than usual
There is no “normal” or “abnormal” here. Everyone has their own rhythm, and every experience of periods as a neurodivergent person is valid.
What It Feels Like
Many neurodivergent people say their period acts like a magnifying glass. A light that usually seems fine suddenly feels too bright. A passing comment can hit harder than you expect. Even your usual clothes might feel irritating.
The takeaway is that there is no one right way to experience menstruation. Noticing these changes and giving yourself grace is the first step toward treating yourself with kindness and self-compassion during your period.
Tips to Navigate Your Menstrual Cycle as a Neurodivergent Person
The good news is there are simple ways to make your period a little easier to handle.
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Listen to your body: A menstrual cycle journal can help you notice when sensitivity is likely to spike.
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Adjust your environment: Soft lighting, comfortable clothing, a warm compress, or a weighted blanket can help reduce sensory overload.
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Take mindful breaks: Breathing exercises, restorative yoga, meditation, or short breaks during the day can ease tension.
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Reach out for support: Talk with friends or family, join supportive communities, or talk to a healthcare professional for resources and guidance.
These steps will not make heightened sensitivity disappear, but they can help you navigate it more safely, comfortably, and with less mental load.
The Importance of Menstrual Products That Work for You
When your body is already dealing with heightened sensory experiences, every little detail matters. Using period products that are safe, comfortable, and sustainable can make a real difference. Products that feel comfortable, are free from harmful ingredients, and are designed to fit your needs can help you feel more at ease and lighten your mental load.
At Iris + Arlo, we make products that respect your body and the planet while promoting inclusivity and equity. Because when your periods feel better, your everyday life feels better too.
Reclaiming Your Well-Being
Understanding the connection between neurodivergence and your menstrual cycle can help you take back your energy and feel more in control. Instead of just getting through your period, you can learn to anticipate changes, prepare, and take care of yourself in a gentle and intentional way.
Your heightened sensitivity is not a weakness. It is part of who you are. While your cycle might amplify it at times, it can also be a chance to really listen to your body. Talking about it, sharing experiences, and using tools that work for you can turn menstruation into a space of empowerment and self-care.
And since these conversations extend beyond the personal realm, learn how discussing menstruation at work can transform workplace culture.
About the Author
This article was written by Marie-Pier Deschênes, author of Flots intérieurs: Living in Tune with My Menstrual Cycle to Avoid Burnout. A certified menstrual wellness coach (IICT) and certified yoga instructor, Marie-Pier combines her expertise in mental health, her yoga practice, and her curiosity about the menstrual cycle to support people in connecting with their bodies. With a master’s degree in social work, she is particularly interested in how bodily and emotional experiences such as hypersensitivity and neurodivergence interact with the menstrual cycle.
