Pregnancy can be a unique and challenging experience for neurodivergent individuals, such as those with autism, ADHD, or other neurological differences. The most impotrtant challenges and changes are these:
Sensory Sensitivities: Pregnancy can heighten sensory experiences, which may already be a challenge for neurodivergent individuals. Changes in smell, taste, and physical sensations can be overwhelming. Strategies to manage sensory overload, such as using sensory tools or creating a calming environment, can be helpful.
Routine and Predictability: Neurodivergent individuals often rely on routine and predictability to manage their daily lives. Pregnancy can bring unpredictability, which may increase anxiety or stress. Maintaining a routine and preparing for changes can help manage these feelings.
Communication with Healthcare Professionals: Effective communication with healthcare providers is crucial. Neurodivergent individuals may benefit from recognising and understanding their needs.
Emotional Adjustment: Pregnancy can bring a range of emotions, and neurodivergent individuals may experience these differently. Therapy and support groups can provide valuable emotional support.
Postnatal Period: The postnatal period can also be challenging, with increased sensory demands and changes in routine. Support from family, friends, and professionals can help manage these challenges and ensure a positive experience.
Understanding and accommodating the unique needs of neurodivergent individuals during pregnancy can lead to a more positive and empowering experience.
This specialised therapy aims to help neurodivergent individuals achieve this positive experience.
The ability to understand and interpret one's own and others' mental states, called mentalisation, can be particularly beneficial for pregnant autistic women. It can help you with these:
Emotional Regulation: Mentalisation can aid in recognising and managing emotions, which is crucial during pregnancy when hormonal changes can intensify feelings. Understanding one's emotional responses can help in developing coping strategies to deal with stress and anxiety.
Recognising and Expressing Needs: Mentalisation can help people understand and acknowledge their own needs and making easier to express needs, preferences, and concerns clearly. This can lead to better support and care during prenatal visits.
Building Relationships: Mentalisation can help understand and respond to the emotions and needs of partners, family members, and healthcare providers. This can strengthen relationships and create a supportive network during pregnancy.
Preparation for Parenthood: Mentalisation can help to understand the emotional needs of the baby. This can be particularly helpful in preparing for the transition to parenthood and developing a nurturing relationship with the newborn.
Self-Advocacy: By understanding their own mental states and needs, pregnant autistic women can better advocate for themselves. This includes requesting accommodations, such as sensory-friendly environments or clear communication from healthcare providers.
Overall, mentalisation can empower pregnant autistic women to navigate the complexities of pregnancy with greater confidence and emotional resilience.
The program can start before or during the pregnancy. In some cases, it is beneficial after childbirth. It can help you adjust to motherhood, accept your changed life situation, and develop appropriate coping strategies.
Sessions last 50 minutes weekly.