Autism and Menopause: Understanding the Connection

What Happens During Menopause?

Menopause is a natural life change that happens to women usually between ages 45 and 55. During this time:

• Monthly periods stop

• Hormone levels change dramatically

• The body produces less oestrogen

• Many physical and emotional changes occur

Common menopause symptoms include:

• Hot flashes and night sweats

• Sleep problems

• Mood changes

• Trouble with memory and focus

• Physical discomfort

How Autism Affects Daily Life

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized

by differences in social communication, sensory processing, and patterns of

behaviour or interests. Autism exists on a spectrum, meaning it presents differently

in each person.

Many autistic people experience:

• Sensitivity to lights, sounds, textures, or smells

• Difficulty with unexpected changes

• Need for predictable routines

• Different ways of processing emotions

• Executive functioning challenges

How Autism and Menopause Might Interact

When an autistic person goes through menopause, they may experience unique challenges:

Sensory Changes May Be More Intense

• Hot flashes might feel more overwhelming due to sensory sensitivity

• Night sweats can be particularly distressing for those with tactile sensitivities

• Temperature regulation problems may interfere with carefully planned clothing choices

• Changes in body odour might be more noticeable and upsetting

Routine Disruptions Can Be Especially Hard

• Unpredictable periods during perimenopause can disrupt carefully planned routines

• Sleep disturbances may seriously affect daily functioning

• The need for new self-care routines can be stressful

• Physical changes may require adjustments to established comfort items or clothing

Communication About Symptoms May Be Different

• Some autistic people might have trouble identifying or describing their menopause symptoms

• Healthcare providers might misinterpret communication differences

• Standard questionnaires about menopause symptoms might not work well

• Important symptoms might go unreported or unaddressed

Emotional Regulation Challenges

• Hormone-related mood changes can compound existing emotional regulation differences

• Anxiety might increase during this time of uncertainty

• Depression risks may be higher when coping with multiple challenges

• Typical coping strategies might not work as well during menopause

Executive Function May Be Further Affected

• Memory and concentration problems from menopause might make existing executive function challenges worse

• Organisation and planning might become more difficult

• The ability to shift attention could become more limited

• Multitasking may become more exhausting

Helpful Approaches for Autistic People Experiencing Menopause

For Better Symptom Management

• Keep a simple symptom journal to track patterns

• Create a sensory toolkit for hot flash relief (cooling towels, fans, etc.)

• Develop predictable routines around new self-care needs

• Use visual charts or apps to track changes

For Medical Appointments

• Bring written notes about symptoms to appointments

• Consider having a trusted person help communicate concerns

• Ask healthcare providers to be direct and specific

• Request written information to review later

For Emotional Support

• Connect with other autistic people going through menopause

• Find online communities where experiences can be shared

• Consider therapy with someone who understands both autism and menopause

• Use special interests as comfort during difficult times

For Daily Life

• Allow more downtime during this transition

• Simplify routines when possible

• Create new visual schedules that include self-care

• Use familiar comfort items to help with new challenges

What Needs More Research

Very little research has been done specifically on autism and menopause. We need more information about:

• Whether hormone therapy works differently for autistic people

• How to better recognise menopause symptoms in non-speaking autistic individuals

• Whether menopause begins earlier or later for autistic people

• How to design better support systems for this life transition

Moving Forward

If you're an autistic person approaching or experiencing menopause:

• Your experiences are valid, even if they differ from typical descriptions

• Finding healthcare providers who understand autism can make a big difference

• Adapting your usual coping strategies for this new phase is important

• Connecting with others who share similar experiences can help

The intersection of autism and menopause may present unique challenges, but with understanding and proper support, this life transition can be navigated successfully.

Do speak to your healthcare provider to get support.