A Qualitative Exploration into the Sensory Experiences of Autistic Mothers.

This study interviewed 7 autistic mothers about their sensory experiences during pregnancy and motherhood. Researchers found that being a parent involves many sensory challenges that can be especially difficult for autistic mothers. The study identified key areas including pregnancy experiences, daily sensory challenges of motherhood, how these difficulties impact mothers, coping strategies, and diagnosis issues. This research helps us better understand what autistic mothers experience and could lead to better support and earlier diagnosis.

This qualitative study explored sensory experiences of 7 autistic mothers through semi-structured interviews, analyzing data using thematic analysis. Five major themes emerged: antenatal experiences, sensory experiences in motherhood, impact of sensory processing difficulties, strategies and needs, and diagnosis. The research addresses a significant knowledge gap, as despite 96% of autistic individuals experiencing sensory processing difficulties and the inherent sensory demands of parenting, no prior research had specifically examined autistic mothers' sensory experiences. Findings suggest potential for earlier diagnosis, need for appropriate support and adaptations across sectors, and highlight an emerging role for occupational therapists in supporting this population.

Findings suggest need for sector-wide adaptations to support autistic mothers and highlight emerging role for occupational therapists. May inform earlier diagnosis protocols and development of targeted sensory support strategies for autistic mothers during pregnancy and parenting.

Very small sample size (7 participants) limits generalizability. Qualitative design provides depth but not statistical power. No comparison group included. Study methodology beyond thematic analysis not detailed in abstract.

Research has found 96% of autistic individuals experience sensory processing difficulties, and being a parent presents many sensory demands that may be especially challenging for autistic mothers. Despite the high prevalence, no research exists exploring the sensory experiences of autistic mothers, highlighting the gap in current knowledge. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 7 autistic mothers, data were analysed using thematic analysis identifying 5 major themes: antenatal experiences, sensory experiences in motherhood, the impact of sensory processing difficulties, strategies and needs, diagnosis. This research provides greater insight and understanding into the sensory experiences of autistic mothers which can influence earlier diagnosis and inform appropriate support and adaptations for autistic mothers in a variety of different sectors and highlights a possible emerging role for Occupational Therapists.