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“It’s not just in my head, and it’s not just irrelevant”: autistic negotiations of menopausal transitions

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journal contribution
posted on 2023-06-09, 23:44 authored by Marianna Karavidas, Richard De VisserRichard De Visser
Physical and psychological changes during menopause can be especially tumultuous for autistic people: difficulties with sensory sensitivity and daily functioning may be exacerbated. Through individual interviews, we examined the language used by seven peri- or post-menopausal autistic people to construct their experiences, and to consider the implications for their wellbeing and identities. Our analysis, which utilised thematic decomposition, yielded three discursive themes. The theme “Uncertainty about Changes” addressed how limited awareness and understanding of menopause combined with difficulties recognising internal states. However, with “Growing Self-Awareness and Self-Care”, some participants made conscious efforts to resist negative societal constructions of both autism and menopause. The theme “Navigating Support Options” addressed the interpersonal and systemic barriers participants faced when seeking support. There is a need for accessible information for autistic people experiencing menopause, and greater professional awareness.

History

Publication status

  • Published

File Version

  • Published version

Journal

Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders

ISSN

0162-3257

Publisher

Springer Nature

Volume

52

Page range

1143-1155

Department affiliated with

  • Psychology Publications

Full text available

  • Yes

Peer reviewed?

  • Yes

Legacy Posted Date

2021-04-29

First Open Access (FOA) Date

2021-04-29

First Compliant Deposit (FCD) Date

2021-04-29

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