Can epigenetic changes during pregnancy affect ADHD risk?

PostedAugust 20, 2025

UpdatedSeptember 4, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

Author: Victoria Rowe, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Emerging research suggests that epigenetics and ADHD are closely linked, particularly during pregnancy. Epigenetic changes which influence how genes are turned on or off without altering the DNA itself can be shaped by the prenatal environment, potentially increasing the risk of ADHD. Understanding how pregnancy factors, such as stress, diet, and toxin exposure, affect gene expression offers valuable insight into prenatal risk and prevention strategies.

How Epigenetics Shapes ADHD Risk

This is how epigenetics and ADHD interact during pregnancy.

Gene expression and brain development

Epigenetic changes can alter gene expression in ways that impact the development of brain regions responsible for attention, impulse control, and emotional regulation.

Sensitive to pregnancy factors

Maternal stress, poor nutrition, smoking, and exposure to toxins during pregnancy are some of the prenatal risk factors believed to affect epigenetic markers associated with ADHD.

Not destiny, but influence

Epigenetic changes do not guarantee a child will develop ADHD, but they can increase vulnerability, especially in combination with genetic and postnatal factors.

Opportunities for prevention

Supporting maternal health and minimising harmful pregnancy factors may help lower the risk of promoting healthier gene expression patterns.

Taking care of both mother and children during pregnancy is a crucial step in promoting healthy development. Visit providers like ADHD Certify for personal consultations and advice on managing epigenetics and ADHD risk.

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Environmental influences.

Victoria Rowe, MSc

Author

Victoria Rowe is a health psychologist with a Master’s in Health Psychology and a BS in Applied Psychology. She has experience as a school psychologist, conducting behavioural assessments, developing individualized education plans (IEPs), and supporting children’s mental health. Dr. Rowe has contributed to peer-reviewed research on mental health, including studies on anxiety disorders and the impact of COVID-19 on healthcare systems. Skilled in SPSS, Minitab, and academic writing, she is committed to advancing psychological knowledge and promoting well-being through evidence-based practice.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy.

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Reviewer

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy.