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Introducing the Aspect Autistic Pregnancy and Parenthood Hub
Following 16 months of research and development, we recently launched the Aspect Autistic Pregnancy and Parenthood Hub.
The Hub is a first-of-its-kind online resource to support Autistic parents and expectant parents, and to help healthcare professionals better understand and support Autistic people during pregnancy and early parenthood.
It was co-developed by the Aspect Research Centre for Autism Practice (ARCAP) with an advisory team of Autistic and non-Autistic researchers, practitioners and individuals.
Visit the Hub to find:
- tips for expectant parents and health professionals
- stories of pregnancy, birth and early parenthood
- customisable tools – birth plans and baby checklists
- free interactive training modules for health professionals
- research highlights
- support services.
We celebrated the “birth” of the Hub at a launch event held at the State Library Victoria. Autistic parents – Gilly McKeown and Lee Squires – joined Dr Abbey Love, project lead from ARCAP, and Cherise Smith from The Royal Women’s Hospital for a panel discussion, facilitated by Mel Spencer OAM, CEO of Different Journeys.
Together, the panellists highlighted the often overlooked and unmet needs of Autistic parents navigating Australia’s perinatal healthcare system, and emphasised the need for more neuroaffirming, inclusive care.
News in brief
Publication: Perinatal experiences
This study, which forms the foundation of the Aspect Autistic Pregnancy and Parenthood Hub, explored the perinatal experiences of 19 Autistic Australians, revealing stories of competence, challenges and coping.
Publication: autism and TikTok
In this study, led by The Kids Research Institute Australia, researchers found the most-viewed TikTok videos about autism and ADHD were created by people with lived experience, who shared their daily challenges, humour and strengths.
Publication: trauma-informed education
We investigated the use of the Berry Street Education Model (BSEM) in Aspect schools. BSEM training enhanced trauma literacy and attitudes towards trauma-informed care among staff and improved teaching practices.
Publication: accessible and inclusive airport design
We partnered with Aspect Autism Friendly to develop recommendations for more accessible airport design. Two themes were identified: navigating the sensory environment and helping passengers with finding their way.
Neurodivergence Wellbeing Conference (NWC25)
ARCAP Research Fellows, Dr Ru Ying Cai and Dr Chris Edwards facilitated a workshop on self-compassion and Chris delivered a keynote presentation on addressing the autism mental health crisis at the inaugural NWC25.
Aspect Autistic Pregnancy and Parenthood Hub media coverage
News about the launch of the Hub and its underpinning research reached more than three million people. Stories featured on ABC, ABC News, Mouths of Mums, Health Services Daily and The Medical Republic.
Autism guide for police
Based on our research and informed by best practice approaches, this 12-page guide supports Australian police in their interactions with Autistic people.
Find arcap-aus on Bluesky
ARCAP has joined Bluesky. Follow us to stay abreast of our latest news – arcap-aus.bsky.social. We also post regular updates on LinkedIn.
From our perspective – Respect and evidence. Now and always
In this blog post, we address some of the misinformation about autism that is currently gaining airtime. We also share Aspect’s approach – one grounded in respect, partnership and a commitment to evidence-informed practice.
Free ARCAP Webinar – Towards inclusive perinatal care for Autistic parents, 20 August
Join us for an interactive webinar exploring the overlooked and unmet needs of Autistic parents in Australia’s perinatal healthcare system. We’ll also showcase the Aspect Autistic Pregnancy and Parenthood Hub that offers validation, guidance and connection for Autistic parents, while also helping health professionals learn how to deliver care that is respectful, inclusive and safe.
We’re seeking parents of Autistic adults working in small or medium businesses to take part in our new research study investigating what helps and hinders Autistic people in the workplace.
We invite you to complete a 10–15 minute survey and take part in a 30–45 minute interview (by email, phone or Teams), so we can learn about your and your child's experiences.
Experiences of non-birthing partners during pregnancy and early parenthood
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. 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 a short online survey (5 minutes) and 1:1 interview (45-60 minutes) using your choice of phone, video call or text-based conversation.
If you would like to know more about ARCAP research studies that you can participate in, please join our mailing list. There is no obligation to take part in any of our studies and you can unsubscribe at any time.
