Infographic - Autism: It is Not Just for Males Anymore – A Primer for Professionals
This Infographic is a summary of a Toolkit, by Dr. Glenis Benson, addressing educators, parents, and yet-to-be diagnosed females, transgendered and nonbinary individuals about an alternative presentation of autism. The ratio of males to females appears to be much lower than previously thought. Obstacles to diagnosing those who do not present with the male phenotype are revealed, and the overlap with sexual and gender minorities and with eating disorders are exposed. Problems with the classification system and diagnostic tools are illuminated and alternative tools are identified.
Toolkit - Autism, it is Not Just for Males Anymore: Looking at the Female and Non-Binary Part of the Spectrum
https://aidecanada.ca/resources/learn/asd-id-core-knowledge/autism-it's-not-just-for-males-anymore
This Toolkit is intended to inform educators, parents, and yet-to-be diagnosed females, transgendered and nonbinary individuals about an alternative presentation of autism. The ratio of males to females appears to be much lower than previously thought. Obstacles to diagnosing those who do not present with the male phenotype are revealed, and the overlap with sexual and gender minorities and with eating disorders are exposed. Problems with the classification system and diagnostic tools are illuminated and alternative tools are identified.
Autism and Pregnancy: How to improve pregnancy care experiences for autistic women
What does research tell us about the pregnancy outcomes and experiences of autistic women? In this webinar, an autistic self-advocate discusses her experiences. Then, three researchers discuss their investigations into perinatal health of autistic women, from preconception to postpartum. Together, the speakers talk about ways to create tailored resources for autistic women.
Celebrating Intersectionality: Autism, Gender and Sexuality
This webinar focuses on the important relationship between autism, gender expression and sexuality. Dr. Wenn Lawson and Yenn Purkis share their experiences and offer guidance in navigating neurodiversity as it relates to sexual identity and expression. This session will feature Dr. Lawson and Yenn Purkis covering key elements of development, identity and self-expression.
INSAR 2022: Mental Health Conditions and Autism Among Females: Emerging Evidence about Comorbid Diagnosis
The International Society for Autism Research (INSAR) is the largest autism research conference in the world. At this year's conference, the topic of mental health conditions in autistic males and females was discussed. Rates of comorbid diagnosis, meaning being diagnosed with more than one health or mental health condition, are higher for autistic individuals compared to the general population. Few research studies have looked at these rates in autistic males vs. females. Researchers found that autistic females were more likely than autistic males to have one or more comorbid diagnoses. Potential reasons for the difference are discussed along with links to a self-assessment questionnaire and additional resources.
The Menstruation Workshop
https://aidecanada.ca/resources/learn/health/the-menstruation-workshop
The Centre for Autism Services Alberta presents The Menstruation Workshop. It discusses autistic perspectives on periods, and what possible challenges and questions that someone may have about menstruating. It also offers practical skills and strategies to teach youth and young autistic teens how to prepare for periods.
Healthy relationships, Sexuality & Autism - The Menstrual Cycle
Autism Nova Scotia has created this toolkit for youth and their caregivers. It explores the four phases of the Menstrual Cycle; Menstrual, Follicular, Ovulation and Luteal, and explains some common period products and menstrual supplies that may be useful.
Womens Stories
Joyce and Chris’ Story: An Indigenous Mother’s Advocacy
Listen to the first Storytelling Video Series for the Bi pi maadzing zaagidwin teg jichaaming / Circle of Life in the Spirit of Love project. Developed by Surrey Place, the series reflects voices and perspectives from Indigenous caregivers and individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities living in Northwestern Ontario. Our first episode features Joyce, a mother advocating for and supporting her son with autism in Kitchenuhmaykoosib Inninuwug First Nation, also known as Big Trout Lake, Ontario. The music is by Rest You Sleep Giant (CC BY 4.0)
Elsbeth's story of autism and self-injurious behaviors
In this video autistic self-advocate Elsbeth tells the story of her experiences concerning autism and self-injurious behavior. This video was created in support of the AIDE Canada 2023 "Impossible Conference".
Maxine's Story of Autism, Healthcare Experiences, & Aging
https://aidecanada.ca/resources/learn/crisis-response/healthcare-experiences-aging-maxine's-story
In this video autistic self-advocate Maxine tells the story of her healthcare experiences as an adult. This video was created in support of the AIDE Canada 2023 "Impossible Conference".
Photo by @joeyy_anne on Unsplash
