Intense connection and love: The experiences of autistic mothers

Knowledge of how parenthood is experienced by autistic women currently poor. Nine mothers to children aged 5–15 years completed semi-structured interviews, analysed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis. All considered at least one their also be autistic. Four superordinate themes emerged: 1. Autism fundamentally impacts parenting; 2. Battle for the right support; 3. Development and acceptance; 4. The ups downs parenting. demonstrate that while motherhood largely a joyful experience (Themes 1 4), it associated with specific issues unlikely found in neurotypical (Theme 1), including negotiating misunderstandings from others 2). need self-care self-acceptance was expressed 3) parenting resulting personal growth adaptation 3). Feelings intense connection closeness were though managing children’s needs had profound impact 2 4). findings service-providers would benefit training, ideally led individuals, on autism presents adulthood, masking, potential mismatching between emotional facial expression, sensory (especially pregnancy), double empathy problem This study represents first systematic in-depth analysis experiences presented own perspectives. Lay abstract For many women, adulthood involves becoming mother. Poor knowledge has range negative consequences can lead inappropriate support. In this study, nine interviewed about motherhood. Seven an officially diagnosed child, final two suspected Systematic interview transcripts identified common themes. Participants as joyful, rewarding, enjoyable, impact. reflected self-acceptance, adaptation. spoke strong bonds, feelings connection, shared children. It clear series challenges non-autistic mothers, necessity others. that, generally, professionals better educated fact often engage behaviour mask true self. Professionals know there have pregnancy). frequently struggle effectively take perspectives into account, profoundly