Abnormal sensory sensitivity during pregnancy, peri-partum and post-partum in mothers with high functioning autism spectrum disorder: A preliminary study

Introduction Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder without intellectual disabilities (High Functioning ASD, HF-ASD) present atypical sensory sensitivity, due to the hyper-reactivity inputs. Objectives To retrospectively evaluate sensitivity in a sample of mothers HF-ASD during pregnancy (pre-partum), delivery and childbirth (peri-partum) three months after (post-partum). Methods 19 13 neurotypical (NT) were asked complete an ad-hoc questionnaire designed for study, named Maternity Questionnaire, assessing perception pre-, peri- post-partum. Moreover, they underwent following assessment: Autism-Spectrum Quotient (AQ), Empathy (EQ), Ritvo Asperger Diagnostic Scale-Revised (RAADS-R), Edinburg Postnatal Depression Scale (EPSD), Sensory Perception (SPQ) Post Partum Bonding Questionnaire (PBQ). Results At showed higher scores than NT overall. presented lower peri-partum, compared pre- post- partum periods, while linear decrease from partum. The two groups significantly differed at AQ, EQ, RAADS-R, SPQ Factor 3 PBQ. Sensitivity post-partum positively correlated EPDS scores. Conclusions Mothers HFA tend experience pregnancy, period differently mothers, particularly terms hypersensitivity, although peri-partum hypersensitivity decreases. Further studies investigating these aspects might give fundamental hints provide proper help motherhood