Między wsparciem a wykluczeniem: wsparcie okołoporodowe kobiet autystycznych w Polsce i w kontekście międzynarodowym
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Abstract
This study aimed to qualitatively compare models of perinatal support offered to autistic women by social organisations operating in Poland and internationally. In this study, the term perinatal period refers to pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period, while perinatal support refers to the informational, practical, peer-based, educational, and advocacy activities provided by organisations during this period. The analysis was conducted using Braun and Clarke’s six-phase thematic analysis approach, including familiarisation with the data, coding, categorisation, and the development of overarching themes. The research material consisted of publicly available descriptions of activities, programmes, and resources published by six social organisations.
The findings were organised into five main themes: (1) strengthening the agency and autonomy of autistic women, (2) creating accessible and safe care environments, (3) educating professionals and increasing professional competence, (4) diversity and flexibility of support models, and (5) barriers and limitations in access to appropriate care. International organisations more frequently combine peer-led support, practical resources, sensory and communication adaptations, and systemic advocacy, whereas Polish organisations more often focus on educational activities, accessibility initiatives, and broader patient-rights advocacy.
The analysis indicates that, despite growing awareness and increasing organisational activity, the availability of perinatal support and services adapted to the needs of autistic individuals remains limited, particularly regarding sensory and communication accessibility. The findings suggest that effective perinatal support should integrate accessible information, practical and peer-based assistance, sensory and communication adaptations, and the active involvement of autistic people in the design and evaluation of support and care. Such an approach may contribute to more inclusive, responsive, and autonomy-supportive systems of perinatal care.
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Data Availability Statement
The study was based on publicly available source materials published by the organizations included in the analysis. No separate research dataset was created or made publicly available.
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