Historically, many women’s health issues have been minimized, misdiagnosed, and dismissed (see here for some background). Menopause in autistic people is a very under-studied area, though in recent years some research has started to emerge. This is an excellent article from the UK Autistic Society covering the basics. While of course everyone’s experience is different, research findings so far suggest that menopause seems to impact autistic people in some of the following ways (from the UK article):

• intensified sensory sensitivities

• difficulty with emotional regulation

• difficulty with executive function, for example planning, focusing and multitasking

• increased difficulty with social interaction and communication

• difficulty with the lack of predictability around your bodily or sensory experience

• difficulty identifying internal states, such as hunger and temperature (this is known as ‘atypical interoception’)

• difficulty recognising and communicating emotions (known as ‘alexithymia’)

• difficulty seeking support due to alexithymia, atypical interoception and communication difficulties.

Further, going through menopause has been a turning point in awareness for some people, the point at which they recognize that they are autistic.

It’s better to hear directly from autistic people who have had this kind of experience. Here are several resources to that end:

• This article from SpectrumNews that links to some relevant recent research

• This article from the UK National Autistic Society that discusses this research paper

• This 2020 paper gives a great overview and adds to the topic

Research Conclusions:

Recent studies (1, 2, 3) have illuminated the complex experiences of autistic individuals experiencing menopause, revealing both the depth and diversity of their challenges. These research conclusions underscore a critical need for better understanding, awareness, and support for this demographic. Here are some themes from the research:

• Recognition of Autism in Adulthood: The path to identifying as autistic later in life can be prolonged and winding. Menopause has emerged as a pivotal moment for many, leading to a newfound recognition of their neurodivergence.

• Menopausal Awareness and Perceptions: Despite the significance of menopause, there remains a profound lack of awareness and understanding within the healthcare community. This gap can result in difficulties when seeking support.

• Impact: The experience of menopause can be especially intense for autistic people, leading to a decline in daily functioning, mental health, and social interaction. These effects underscore the importance of tailored support strategies.

• A Neurodiverse Menopause: Autistic individuals may experience menopause differently from their neurotypical counterparts. This unique manifestation can include heightened cognitive, sensory, and emotional challenges, emphasizing the need for a neurodivergent perspective in menopausal care and research.

The confluence of menopause and autism can present a distinct set of challenges that require attention. The studies indicate a stark lack of knowledge and inadequate support for autistic people experiencing menopause. This period can exacerbate pre-existing difficulties and introduce new ones, affecting daily life and well-being. The research calls for a concerted effort to increase awareness among healthcare professionals and to develop support mechanisms that acknowledge and cater to the unique needs of autistic individuals during menopause.

A related and important subject is menstruation and autism. Again, the UK Autistic Society provided a good article that gives a foundational understanding.