Researchers call for targeted menopause support for autistic women

Autistic women face serious gaps in menopause support and healthcare, with many reporting poor treatment and a lack of tailored information, a new review shows.

The analysis found many were unaware of symptoms when they began, struggled to access appropriate care and often had negative experiences with health services.

Three main issues emerged: poor knowledge of menopause, wide-ranging and sometimes severe symptoms, and limited access to treatment. Online forums and peer groups often filled the gaps left by formal healthcare.

The review, led by Dr Aimee Grant from Swansea University’s School of Health and Social Care, examined academic studies and first-hand accounts of autistic people’s menopause experiences.

Dr Grant said: “My review shows there is a real need to develop high-quality, co-produced resources to help Autistic people prepare for and navigate menopause.

“I also think that peer support models should be explored and evaluated and that healthcare professionals need to have tailored training and information to provide appropriate care for Autistic people during this life stage.”

Two studies found autistic people experienced more severe symptoms than non-autistic people, affecting work, relationships and self-confidence. Treatment was inconsistent.

Many used non-medical coping strategies, such as increased rest, while few tried hormone replacement therapy (HRT), which replaces hormones that drop during menopause.

Most described interactions with health professionals as negative.

The review also highlighted research gaps, including the impact on underserved groups within the autistic community, urogenital symptoms such as urinary incontinence, HRT use and effectiveness, and the development of tools to support autistic people during menopause.

Willow Holloway, director of Autistic UK and a study author, said: “We urgently need recognition of the different communication and access needs Autistic people have during menopause.

“It’s important that health professionals focus on the additional barriers of being Autistic, which can create a double-edged sword by adding to existing health inequalities.

“This review involved Autistic people with lived experience, and it is essential that the solutions are co-developed.”