“A wild and inaccessible place”: the lived experiences of autistic pregnancy and birth

Background: Pregnancy is associated with a multitude of physiological and emotional changes that can be challenging for physical and mental health. Emerging pregnancy research suggests that additional challenges for autistic women exist, including heightened sensory sensitivity, barriers to communication, and overwhelming birth experiences.

Methods: This study provides an in-depth investigation of autistic women’s experiences of pregnancy and birth using interpretative phenomenological analysis. Eight autistic cisgender women, seven of whom received their autism diagnosis after birthing, participated in semi-structured interviews.

Results: Three group experiential themes were identified: (1) Reinterpretation of perinatal experiences after diagnosis (disconnection from reality during birth; grief for expected journey; battle with sensory experiences), (2) the ups and downs of connecting to their maternal identity (feelings of instant affection and love; sense of not belonging), and (3) seeking support: need versus reality (feeling uncared for, unsupported, and powerless; containing, consistent, warm support).

Conclusion: Autistic people have similar pregnancy experiences to non-autistic people but experience additional challenges. Most participants experienced disconnection from reality during birth, leading to confusion and distress. Societal stigma and perceived judgment negatively impacted maternal identities. Heightened sensory sensitivity was common and could interfere with daily life. Consistent support was valued but rarely experienced; all participants struggled to communicate their needs to professionals and felt uncared for and misunderstood.