In this episode, Catherine talks to Dr Aimee Grant, Associate Professor and Wellcome Trust Career Development Fellow at Swansea University, who leads the "Autism from Menstruation to Menopause" study.
Together, Catherine and Dr Grant discuss why periods can be especially challenging for some autistic people, including sensory experiences, pain, emotional changes, interoception, unpredictability, and the practical difficulties of managing periods at school, work or in healthcare settings.
They explore why autistic young people may need clear, detailed and timely information before their first period, and why support should not stop once periods begin. Catherine and Dr Grant also discuss how parents and carers can support period tracking and preparation, including helping young people understand what to expect, plan ahead, and feel more in control.
The conversation also covers managing periods at school, including bathroom access, changing products, and the importance of reasonable adjustments. They discuss how missing activities, taking breaks or resting more during a period can be a valid form of self-care, rather than something to feel guilty about.
Catherine and Dr Grant also talk about regulation strategies during menstruation, including stimming, using screens, comfort objects, quiet time and other approaches that may help reduce distress or overwhelm. They consider the importance of finding period products that work for the individual, including pads, tampons and period pants, while recognising that sensory preferences and practical needs will vary from person to person.
They also discuss how period pain, heavy bleeding, fatigue or changes in mood and sensory sensitivity can sometimes be misunderstood, dismissed or treated as something autistic people simply have to ‘put up with’. Instead, Dr Grant encourages listeners to take symptoms seriously, seek medical advice when something does not feel right, and approach periods with self-compassion and autism-affirming support.
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Connect with Dr Aimee Grant
Website: https://www.draimeegrant.com/
Autism and puberty blog for Autism Central: https://www.autismcentral.nhs.uk/news/blog-talking-about-puberty-your-child
Autism from Menstruation to Menopause study website: https://www.autismmenstruationtomenopause.com/
Connect with Catherine
Email: hellocatherineasta@gmail.com
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Books: Rediscovered and Still Living
