Study, 2011
How do women with autism experience menstruation and its symptoms?
Women with autism (ages 10-25) commonly experience severe menstrual pain and PMS, but these conditions are often undertreated.
What they did
Researchers asked caregivers of women with autism spectrum disorders (aged 10-25) about menstrual experiences, including hygiene concerns, menstrual pain, PMS symptoms, and treatments they received.
What they found
Frequent and severe menstrual pain and PMS symptoms were common in this group. These symptoms had moderate overall impact. However, available treatments like hormonal birth control were underused.
What it means for you
Women with autism experience significant menstrual and PMS symptoms but often don't receive available treatments. Since caregivers reported symptoms rather than the women themselves, there may be gaps in understanding. The study doesn't provide specific numbers for how many women were involved or what percentage experienced each symptom.
10-25
age range of women studied
About the study
- Original title
- Autism spectrum disorders and menstruation
- Authors
- Hamilton A, Marshal MP, Murray PJ
- Journal
- The Journal of adolescent health : official publication of the Society for Adolescent Medicine
- Year
- 2011
- Study design
- Study
- Read the paper
- doi.org/10.1016/j.jadohealth.2011.01.015
Topics
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