A new study published in the journal, ‘Autism and Developmental Disorders’ stated that pregnant autistic women are more likely to experience despair and anxiety.

Researchers evaluated 417 autistic people and 524 non-autistic participants in an online survey regarding their pregnancy experiences. 

They observed autistic parents were about three times more likely than non-autistic parents to report having gone through prenatal depression (9% of non-autistic parents and 24% of autistic parents) and anxiety (14% of non-autistic parents and 48% of autistic parents). Autistic participants were found to have lower satisfaction with prenatal treatment. They were less likely to trust experts, feel that professionals treated them with respect, think that professionals took their questions and concerns seriously, and be happy with how information was given to them in appointments. Additionally, autistic responders were more likely to have sensory problems during pregnancy and to be overstimulated by the sensory environment of prenatal visits.

According to experts, this study implies that autistic people are more susceptible to mental health issues during pregnancy. They contend that prenatal care adjustments may be advantageous for autistic people. These might include alterations to the sensory environment of healthcare facilities, and the way information is shared during prenatal sessions.

(Source: https://theprint.in/health/autistic-people-are-more-vulnerable-to-depression-anxiety-during-pregnancy-study/1187817/