People with autism are more likely to experience depression and anxiety during pregnancy

A new study from the University of Cambridge shows that autistic people are more likely to be depressed and anxious
during pregnancy.
The findings, published in the Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, have important implications
for helping people with autism get pregnant.

In the study, led by researchers from the Center for Autism Research, 524 non-autistic people and 417 autistic people completed an online survey
about their experiences of pregnancy.
Anyone who is pregnant or has had a baby before at the time of answering the questions is eligible to participate
.

Studies show that autistic parents are three times more
likely than non-autistic parents to report experiencing 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 respondents were also less
satisfied with pregnancy care.
Autistic respondents were less likely to trust professionals, believing that professionals took their questions and concerns seriously, that professionals respected them, and were comfortable
with the way information was presented to them on a date.
In addition, respondents with autism were more likely to experience sensory problems during pregnancy and more likely to feel overwhelmed
by the sensory environment of their prenatal appointment.

Dr Sarah Hampton, lead researcher of the study, said: "This study shows that people with autism are more likely to have mental health problems
during pregnancy.
Effective mental health screening and support
for people with autism during pregnancy must be provided.
”

Dr Rosie Holt, a member of the research team, added: "The findings also suggest that people with autism may benefit
from antenatal care.
This may include adjusting the sensory environment of the health care facility and adjusting the way
information is communicated during antenatal appointments.
”

Dr Carrie Allison, associate director of the Autism Research Centre and a member of the team, said: "We are very grateful for the feedback
provided by members of the autism community as we designed this study.
Importantly, people with autism who have lived experiences help shape the research we do, and we make them a clear focus
.
”

Professor Simon Barron-Cohen, Director of the Autism Research Centre and member of the research team, said: "It is important that more research be done into the experiences of parents of autistic newborns, who have been overlooked
in research.
It is also important to translate this research into health and social care policy and practice to ensure that these parents receive the support and adaptation
they need in a timely manner.
”