New research shows drastic effects the menopause can have on autistic people
Academics from Bournemouth University have found the menopause can ‘intensify neurological traits’ in autistic people
New research from Bournemouth University has found that the menopause can have life-changing, and in some cases life-threatening, effects on autistic people.
The study led by, psychology professor, Dr Rachel Moseley found that autistic people often experience an intensification of their neurological traits which sometimes trigger serious mental health crises at a time when support is often hardest to access.
This is the first study of its kind to systematically examine how autistic people experience menopause and how they cope with its symptoms.
The researchers have gathered evidence from several hundred autistic participants, combining personal testimonies with psychological assessments.
Across multiple studies, a striking pattern emerged: aspects of autism that had previously helped individuals function in daily life began to feel disabling during the menopausal transition.
Traits such as hyper-focus, attention to detail and heightened sensory awareness were frequently reported as becoming overwhelming rather than advantageous.
Dr Moseley said: “It wasn’t just that autism affected the experience of classic menopausal symptoms like hot flushes, the menopause also changed how neurodivergent people experienced their neurodivergence.
“Combined with menopause, certain autistic traits were dialled up, emotions became harder to regulate and sensory sensitivities intensified.”
In their most recent work, the research team conducted in-depth interviews with 16 autistic participants to better understand why menopause may have such a marked impact.
Professor Julie Gamble-Turner, a co-author of the research, said menopause should be understood as a neurological as well as hormonal transition.
She said: “Menopause isn’t just something that happens in the ovaries, it’s a significant neurological transition point, involving changes in brain structure and function.
“For people with pre-existing neurological differences, or a history of life stress, this can fundamentally shape how menopausal symptoms are experienced.”
Some participants reported sharp deteriorations in wellbeing, including increased anxiety, depression, self-harm and suicidal thoughts.
Several described feeling dismissed or misunderstood by healthcare professionals when seeking help, compounding their distress.
The researchers stress that better support is urgently needed, amid findings that raise serious concerns about mental health.
Autistic people and those with ADHD already face higher suicide rates, and menopause may represent a critical period of vulnerability.
“Identifying this group and providing tailored support isn’t optional,” Dr Moseley said. “It’s essential if we want to protect lives and long-term wellbeing.”