Perceptions of Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder on How Health Care Providers Address Sexual Health

Area of Science:

• Neurodevelopmental Disorders
• Public Health
• Sexual Health Education

Background:

• Medical providers face challenges discussing sexual health with individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
• Limited research exists on the sexual health care experiences of adults with ASD from their perspective.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the sexual health care experiences of adults with ASD.
• To compare sexual health discussion frequency, content, and counseling between adults with and without ASD.

Main Methods:

• A survey was administered to 25 verbal young adults with ASD and 40 neurotypical young adults.
• The survey assessed healthcare visit frequency, age of first sexual health discussion, and provider communication.
• Statistical analyses compared sexual health topic discussion, counseling receipt, and information sources between groups.

Main Results:

• Both groups reported similar comfort discussing sexual health and access to primary care providers.
• Adults with ASD were less likely to have received sexual health counseling (52% vs. 81%) and discussed sexual victimization less.
• The ASD group received more sexual health information from parents compared to the neurotypical group.

Conclusions:

• Despite similar comfort levels, adults with ASD receive less comprehensive sexual health counseling, including crucial victimization screening.
• This highlights a potential gap in essential sexual health information for adults with ASD.
• Further research is needed to address provider barriers and improve sexual health care delivery for this population.