This study explored the pregnancy and early parenthood experiences of 19 Autistic individuals in Australia, revealing both challenges and strengths. While participants faced barriers such as feeling ‘lost in the system’ and struggling with unpredictable healthcare, they also reported empowerment during pregnancy, intense engagement with information, and effective coping strategies. The findings highlight the resilience of Autistic parents and call for more inclusive, understanding healthcare practices tailored to Autistic needs, especially during the perinatal period.
This study explored the pregnancy and early parenthood experiences of 19 Autistic individuals in Australia, revealing both challenges and strengths. While participants faced barriers such as feeling ‘lost in the system’ and struggling with unpredictable healthcare, they also reported empowerment during pregnancy, intense engagement with information, and effective coping strategies. The findings highlight the resilience of Autistic parents and call for more inclusive, understanding healthcare practices tailored to Autistic needs, especially during the perinatal period.
