This 2 hour workshop will explore a neurodiverse experience of pregnancy, childbirth and the menopause covering the following areas:
- Investigate how hormonal change at key life stages impacts mental health and emotional wellbeing in Autistic females and those that have this experience.
- Consider hormonal change as an accelerator of Autistic traits and behaviours, increasing referrals for diagnostic assessment.
- Explore why Autistic females are at risk of health inequalities in pregnancy that affect physical and psychological wellbeing.
- Discuss the onset of menopause in Autistic females; how it can amplify existing difficulties and create new hardship in the areas of communication, sensory processing and executive function.
- Identify ways to support and empower Autistic females, so they can anticipate and manage hormonal change more effectively.