A comparative study of autistic and non-autistic women's experience of motherhood.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Autism is a lifelong neurodevelopmental difference and disability, yet there is limited research examining parenting in autistic mothers.

Objective

To explore autistic mothers' experience of the perinatal period and parenthood. This includes pregnancy, childbirth, the postpartum period, self-perception of parenting strengths and weaknesses, communication with professionals in relation to one's child, mental health difficulties and the social experience of motherhood. It also includes disclosing one's diagnosis of autism in parenting contexts.

Methods

We used a community-based participatory research model, and recruited an advisory panel, with whom we co-developed an anonymous, online survey for autistic mothers. The online survey was completed by autistic a

SUBMITTER: Pohl AL 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6945630 | biostudies-literature | 2020

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature