Important Health Care Components to Promote Sexual and Reproductive Health Among Young Women With Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder: A Delphi Study.

INTRODUCTION AND

OBJECTIVES

Living with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) may negatively affect young women's sexual and reproductive health (SRH) if they lack adequate support. To promote positive and safe sexual and relational experiences, this study aimed to identify important components within health care settings that can promote SRH among young women with ADHD.

METHODS

An expert panel of young women (aged 19-29 years) with ADHD and health care professionals (HCPs) working in SRH counselling or psychiatric clinics rated the importance of statements on the topic across two survey rounds.

RESULTS

Consensus was reached on about two-thirds of the statements. High agreement emphasized the need for HCP training on ADHD and SRH in both psychiatric clinics and SRH clinics, including knowledge of hormonal influences. Important components also included routine inquiries about sexuality and relationships, and sexual violence; accessible health care; inclusive SRH information that acknowledges variation of symptoms and functional abilities; discussion groups on sexuality and relationships for young women; and integrating SRH in existing psychoeducation.

CONCLUSION

SRH among young women with ADHD may benefit from several health care efforts delivered across both sexual health and psychiatric services, including accessible care tailored to their needs, structured clinical routines and appropriate training in SRH and ADHD for HCPs.

PATIENT AND PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION: Young women with experience of living with ADHD and HCPs with varied clinical expertise participated in the Delphi study. Women with ADHD were involved as co-researchers in the survey development and in the pilot-testing.