Sexual and Reproductive Health Service Utilization and Sexuality for Teens on the Autism Spectrum

Area of Science:

• Neurodevelopmental Disorders
• Autism Spectrum Disorder Research
• Adolescent Sexual Health

Background:

• Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) significantly impacts social and communication development, often extending to challenges in understanding and navigating sexual health.
• There is a critical lack of comprehensive data regarding the sexual behaviors, education, and healthcare access for adolescents with ASD, particularly for girls.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the sexual development, behaviors, and educational/healthcare service access for youth with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
• To identify specific needs and disparities in sexuality education and health services for adolescents with ASD.

Main Methods:

• A survey was administered to parents of 298 youth (aged 12-18 years) diagnosed with ASD, encompassing a spectrum of intellectual functioning.
• Data collection focused on parent-reported sexual attraction, relationship experiences, social behaviors, educational background, and healthcare consultations regarding sexuality.

Main Results:

• Most surveyed youth with ASD experienced sexual attraction and interest in relationships, with 13.2% reporting same-sex attraction. Girls were more likely than boys to have had romantic relationships.
• Nearly 40% of youth received no formal sex education, a figure rising to over 60% for those with intellectual disability (IQ < 70).
• While many parents consulted healthcare providers (55.9%), significant gaps in service utilization and education access were identified, especially for younger individuals, those with intellectual disabilities, and students in non-public schools.

Conclusions:

• Adolescents with ASD demonstrate typical sexual development, including attraction and relationship interests, necessitating tailored support.
• There are significant unmet needs for sexual and reproductive health services and comprehensive sexuality education among youth with ASD.
• Disparities in access to education and healthcare highlight the need for improved, inclusive services for this population, particularly for those with co-occurring intellectual disabilities or attending specific school types.