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“We Carry the Burden of Doing Right, Doing Wrong, and the Guilt That Follows”: A Qualitative Study of Postpartum Experiences of Autistic and Non-Autistic Mothers

Marta García-Plata and Irene Garcia-Molina ()
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Marta García-Plata: MEIGA, Family Intervention and Mediation Master’s Programme, Developmental, Educational, Social Psychology and Methodology Department, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universitat Jaume I, 12006 Castelló, Spain
Irene Garcia-Molina: MEIGA, DEVELOP Group, Developmental, Educational, Social Psychology and Methodology Department, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universitat Jaume I, 12006 Castelló, Spain

Disabilities, 2025, vol. 5, issue 4, 1-19

Abstract: The intersection of autism and motherhood/parenthood remains largely underexplored, particularly within the Spanish context. Autistic mothers and birthing parents are often silenced, with limited representation and scarce accessible information, contributing to a broader social and institutional unawareness. This study explores the postpartum experiences of autistic and non-autistic mothers during the first two years following childbirth. Twelve semi-structured interviews were conducted with six autistic and six non-autistic mothers and analyzed using Reflexive Thematic Analysis. Three key themes were constructed, as follows: (1) Ups and Downs: Navigating Emotional and Sensory Experiences, highlighting the intense sensory and emotional load of early motherhood; (2) Lack of Information and Support: The Root of Increased Vulnerability, addressing gaps in institutional support and knowledge; and (3) The Social Dimensions of Early Postpartum: Tensions and Expectations, focusing on family and societal pressures as well as identity struggles. While experiences overlapped in several areas, two tentative distinctions were observed, as follows: autistic mothers appeared to favor self-guided strategies (e.g., books, personal guidelines), whereas non-autistic mothers relied more on professional guidance; additionally, autistic mothers expressed a stronger preference for autonomy, while non-autistic mothers often valued companionship. These findings underscore the urgent need for healthcare professionals to receive training on autistic motherhood/parenthood and for the development of tailored postpartum care guidelines to ensure inclusive, responsive support.

Keywords: postpartum; autism; autistic mother; birthing parents (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: I (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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