Navigating Pregnancy and Childbirth as an Autistic AFAB: Breaking the Silence on Unique Challenges

* Autistic podcast hosts Dr. Angela Lauria and Matt Lowry, LPP discuss the often-overlooked challenges autistic AFAB (Assigned Female at Birth) individuals face during pregnancy and childbirth.

* They highlight the lack of research and information available on autism and pregnancy, leaving many autistic individuals' unique needs and sensitivities unrecognized and unaccommodated.

* Angela shares her personal experiences, including severe morning sickness, limited safe foods, and feeling disconnected from the typical pregnancy narrative, emphasizing the diversity of autistic pregnancy experiences.

* The hosts discuss how autistic individuals often face criticism and abandonment from care providers for not conforming to "typical" pregnancy expectations or asking questions about procedures.

* They reference a study showing autistic women often feel belittled, ignored, and uninformed during childbirth, with heightened attention often perceived as negative rather than positive.

* The podcast critiques the profit-driven approach of many hospitals, which can lead to unnecessary medical interventions regardless of the pregnant person's birth plan.

* Working with a doula is highlighted as a positive strategy for autistic individuals, providing detailed explanations and preparation to mitigate anxiety and potential trauma.

* The hosts emphasize the crucial need for community support, story sharing, and trauma-informed care specifically tailored for autistic individuals during pregnancy and childbirth.

* Overall, the episode underscores the importance of self-understanding and identity in advocating for one's needs as an autistic person navigating pregnancy and childbirth.

What was your Autistic experience of being pregnant? Tell us in the comments and use #AutisticCultureCatch to share your answer on your social media and connect with other listeners!

Article: Autism, pregnancy and childbirth

Video: Autistic Pregnancy: How I coped

Article: Autistic and pregnant

Study: Pregnancy in autistic women and social medical considerations

Play script: Birth By Karen Brody

Book: Pregnancy Childbirth and the Newborn: The Complete Guide by Penny Simkin

Book: The Thinking Woman's Guide to a Better Birth by Henci Goer

More episodes…

Episode 14: Autistic Medical Needs

Episode 20: Sesame Street is Autistic

Episode 56: Lessons in Chemistry is Autistic

Ready for a paradigm shift that empowers Autistics? Help spread the news!

Find us on:

* Follow our Instagram account!

* Review us on Apple podcasts and Spotify

* Follow us on Instagram

* Learn more about Angela at AngelaKingdon.com

* TACP’s Autism-affirming TeePublic merch shop

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com/subscribe

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.