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Why

At ARCAP, we’ve created a hub of resources for Autistic parents during pregnancy and early parenthood. We’ve heard from healthcare professionals and Autistic parents. Now we want to hear from the partners!

Feeling supported during pregnancy can make a big difference. Social support can include emotional encouragement, practical help, or simply feeling connected and understood by others.

Research shows that when people feel well supported, they’re less likely to experience depression, stress or anxiety – factors that can influence pregnancy and birth outcomes. On the other hand, those with limited support may face greater challenges with their mental health during pregnancy.

Although we know social support is important, we don’t yet know enough about how this plays out for Autistic people during pregnancy. In this study we are interested in the types of support non-birthing partners provided to their Autistic partner, and what this period was like for them and their family.

What are the experiences of non-birthing partners of Autistic people during pregnancy and early parenthood?

What does support for Autistic people look like from the partner perspective?

What support did a partner need or receive? What support did they give?

Take part

We invite non-birthing partners of Autistic people to take part in this study if you:

  • are 18 years or older
  • live in Australia
  • are or were the partner of an Autistic person during their pregnancy in the last five years.

All neurotypes – Autistic or non-Autistic – are welcome to take part.

Participants will complete:

Complete the survey

Making a difference

By sharing your experiences of pregnancy and early parenthood, you’ll help us understand what supports worked well and what challenges arose. Your insights will guide the creation of digital resources to better support Autistic people and their families during this important time.

Research team

  • Dr Chris Edwards: Adjunct Research Fellow, Griffith University and Research Fellow, ARCAP
  • Dr Abbey Love: Research Fellow, ARCAP
  • Dr Vicki Gibbs: Head of Research, ARCAP
  • Dr Ru Ying Cai: Research Fellow, ARCAP

Started

2025

Ends

2025

Funding

Aspect (Autism Spectrum Australia)

Ethics approval

GU Ref No: 2025/345

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