"I ask them what autism means for them": a qualitative study of staff experiences of working with autistic women and birthing people in community perinatal mental health teams.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Autistic women and birthing people (AWBP) face an increased risk of perinatal mental health issues and may be referred to Community Perinatal Mental Health Teams (CPMHTs). However, staff members of CPMHTs often lack sufficient training and knowledge about autism, leading to barriers in providing appropriate care. To date, no studies have examined the experiences of staff supporting autistic women and birthing people within CPMHTs.

Methods

We carried out individual qualitative interviews with 20 staff members from different professional backgrounds across four CPMHTs in England to understand their experiences working with AWBP and to identify how CPMHTs could better meet their needs. Thematic analysis was used to synthesise findings.

Results

We identified fo

SUBMITTER: Westgate V 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12560391 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature