06/12/2026
According to recent research, (cited below) neurodivergent mothers - particularly autistic mothers - may face a higher risk of experiencing postpartum depression.
In one study, around 60% of autistic mothers reported experiencing postpartum depression, compared to approximately 10 to 20% of women in the general population (estimates vary by study and diagnostic criteria).
Researchers also found that autistic mothers reported greater difficulties in areas such as multi-tasking, coping with domestic responsibilities, and creating social opportunities for their child.
They were also more likely to report feeling misunderstood by professionals, and reported greater anxiety, higher rates of selective mutism, and uncertainty about which details were appropriate to share with professionals.
They were ALSOOOO more likely to find motherhood an isolating experience, to worry about others judging their parenting, or to feel unable to turn to others for support.
The way your body is affected by motherhood is very real - and a lot to handle.
Pregnancy and postpartum bring measurable changes to the brain.
Research suggests that:
-Some regions of the cerebral cortex show small reductions in volume (around 1–2%) in the months after birth, which may reflect neural adaptation rather than loss of function.
-The hippocampus (involved in memory formation and retrieval) may show temporary structural changes during the postpartum period.
-The ventral striatum (linked to motivation, reward, and social behavior) also undergoes changes that may relate to caregiving behaviors.
-The amygdala becomes more responsive, which is thought to support heightened emotional sensitivity to a baby’s needs.
-The prefrontal cortex shows dynamic changes, including restructuring and, in some cases, increases in gray matter volume over time. Some studies suggest these patterns may differ in those experiencing postpartum depression.
These changes are complex and often adaptive - but they can still feel overwhelming, especially when layered with the challenges of neurodivergence.
Additionally…many autistic women remain undiagnosed into adulthood.
Some estimates suggest a large proportion are not identified in childhood, meaning SO MANY mothers may not fully understand why they experience the world differently or what supports could help.
That can leave people struggling without the language, tools, or validation they deserve.
If you’re suffering in silence, you’re not alone.
And while being open about your struggles can feel risky, your experience is real - and it matters.
I see you, and I care 🫂
