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Menstruation among autistic adults: An occupational perspective
Samantha Lj Bowden1, Paul K Miller1
1University of Cumbria, Lancaster, UK.
The British Journal of Occupational Therapy
|September 29, 2025
Summary
Menstruation significantly impacts autistic adults, causing sensory overload, anxiety, and affecting daily activities. Understanding these unique challenges is crucial for developing targeted support strategies and improving occupational engagement.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Science
- Autism Research
- Menstrual Health
Background:
- Menstruation is known to negatively affect occupational performance.
- Research on menstruation experiences in autistic individuals is limited, despite potential for significant disruption.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the lived experiences of menstruation among autistic adults.
- To identify the occupational impacts of menstruation for autistic individuals.
Main Methods:
- Qualitative research design.
- In-depth online interviews with 6 autistic adults in the UK.
- Thematic analysis of 34,734 words of transcript.
Main Results:
- Key themes included 'Sense of self' (sensory overload, anxiety, 'brain fog', cleanliness concerns), 'Attributional work' (identifying triggers/exacerbating factors like public restrooms), and 'Reclaiming orderliness' (coping strategies for unpredictability).
- Menstruation presents specific challenges impacting self-care, productivity, and leisure occupations for autistic individuals.
Conclusions:
- Menstruation poses significant, autism-specific challenges requiring tailored solutions.
- Occupational Therapists play a vital role in supporting autistic individuals with menstruation-related occupational engagement and participation.
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