Sensory Experiences of Autistic Mothers During Pregnancy & Childbirth

We have compiled this information based on current research and interviews with Autistic mothers. Our goal is to highlight the sensory experiences that Autistic women encounter during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period. We hope this information will empower Autistic women to better understand their sensory needs and learn strategies for self-advocacy in healthcare settings. It is also our intention for this information to be used to educate and provide suggestions for healthcare providers to create more neurodiverse-affirming care practices.

Pregnancy

Below are some of the common pregnancy experiences discussed with Autistic mothers. The mothers talked about physical changes, sensory experiences, and the importance of communication between the patient and their providers.

• Physical Symptoms

  • Fatigue

  • Morning Sickness

  • Joint pain (often associated with Hypermobility/Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome)

  • Nausea

• Social-Emotional

• Many of us are passionate about our work and/or use overworking as a coping mechanism

• During pregnancy, there can be a loss of identity due to the inability to work 

• Sensory Experiences

• Increased sensitivity to lighting in doctors' offices

• Increased sensitivity to noises in waiting rooms, hospitals, and in the workplace 

• Communication During Office Visits

• Preferred communication style

• Clear and thorough communication

• Tests and procedures adequately explained

• Providers who allow time for questions (not feeling rushed)

• Discuss all possible scenarios for the birthing experience ahead of time in the case that something doesn’t go according to plan (positioning of the baby during labor, different options for induction) 

• Bring another person with you to help advocate for your needs (partner, midwife, or doula)

• Lack of Provider Communication

• Not all provider communicate thoroughly, leading to unanswered questions

• Participants had to seek out information online (Reddit groups and online forums) or through a family member or friend

Childbirth

Discussions with Autistic mothers about the birthing process revealed key topics that included birthing trauma, communication, sensory experiences, and the epidural. The women emphasized the importance of communication throughout the entire birthing process, as well as provided suggestions for compiling sensory items to bring to the hospital/birthing center to promote regulation.

• Trauma: There are certain situations during the birthing process that can perceived as traumatic. 

  • Because much of the birthing situation is out of one’s control, the mothers may put full trust in their providers

  • Birth trauma can be experienced when birthing plans are dismissed or changed without consent

• Lack of communication 

• It’s common for providers to dismiss an Autistic patient’s feelings and experiences because of communication differences (flat affect, appearing calm, body language)

• This can lead to misunderstanding as well as unwanted situations/procedures/experiences

• Epidural

• The epidural was reported as one of the most painful aspects of the childbirth experience

• It can also be a sensory trigger because of the need to remain still during the procedure, which limits the ability to stim

• Communication

• It is helpful to have things explained ahead of time, knowing what to expect in the hospital and laboring process

• It is recommended to have discussed various scenarios and solutions with your doctor for when things don't go according to plan

• Sensory Experiences

• Have a conversation ahead of time with your provider or hospital staff to explain your sensory sensitivities and ask what choices you have regarding noise, lights, and temperature

• Suggestions for environmental modifications 

  • Yellow-toned, warm lighting

  • Clothing and blanket options

  • Headphones and calming music

• Create a sensory toolkit for the hospital/birthing center with items that you find calming