“We Carry the Burden of Doing Right, Doing Wrong, and the Guilt That Follows”: A Qualitative Study of Postpartum Experiences of Autistic and Non-Autistic Mothers

Abstract

The intersection of autism and motherhood/parenthood remains largely underexplored, particularly within the Spanish context. Autistic mothers and birthing parents are often silenced, with limited representation and scarce accessible information, contributing to a broader social and institutional unawareness. This study explores the postpartum experiences of autistic and non-autistic mothers during the first two years following childbirth. Twelve semi-structured interviews were conducted with six autistic and six non-autistic mothers and analyzed using Reflexive Thematic Analysis. Three key themes were constructed, as follows: (1) Ups and Downs: Navigating Emotional and Sensory Experiences, highlighting the intense sensory and emotional load of early motherhood; (2) Lack of Information and Support: The Root of Increased Vulnerability, addressing gaps in institutional support and knowledge; and (3) The Social Dimensions of Early Postpartum: Tensions and Expectations, focusing on family and societal pressures as well as identity struggles. While experiences overlapped in several areas, two tentative distinctions were observed, as follows: autistic mothers appeared to favor self-guided strategies (e.g., books, personal guidelines), whereas non-autistic mothers relied more on professional guidance; additionally, autistic mothers expressed a stronger preference for autonomy, while non-autistic mothers often valued companionship. These findings underscore the urgent need for healthcare professionals to receive training on autistic motherhood/parenthood and for the development of tailored postpartum care guidelines to ensure inclusive, responsive support.