Imagine that you are going through a life feeling, trying to understand social stimuli, or feel amazed with things that others ignore.
You are trying to fit in, learn the right behavior and follow social expectations, but somehow something is still not feeling well. For many women, these feelings can be associated with something deeper – a spectrum disorder (ASD).
Despite what many people believe, autism is not just a state that affects men. In fact, countless women go through life without being diagnosed, often because autism signs in women are not so easily recognizable.
Since the diagnostic criteria were traditionally based on male behavior, many women are left undiagnosed until adulthood, they do not know that the challenges they face are associated with ASD. If it sounds familiar, you are not alone. More research finally casts light on the unique ways of autism in women, and it is essential to understand how these symptoms differ from common stereotypes.
The autism spectrum disorder (ASD), commonly known as autism, often does not affect women. Historically, it was assumed that ASD primarily affects men, but recent research shows that many women with autism are not diagnosed until adulthood.
This is partly due to the evaluation of instruments and diagnostic criteria based on male characteristics, which means that the way ASD manifests itself in women is less understood. For many, accepting the diagnosis of autism may be relief because it offers an explanation for past challenges and opens the door to useful sources forwarding. That is why scientists are now focusing on understanding specific features that tend to appear in autistic women.
Intense interests
 The medical expert must observe limited and recurring behavior as well as problems with social interaction and communication. However, these behavior often occurs in boys and girls because of social expectations. For example, children with autism often show an intense interest in a specific subject.
While autistic boys may be interested in specialized topics such as trains or computers, autistic girls often choose the interests more in harmony with their peers such as horses, pop stars or fictional characters. This similarity of interest does not always raise concerns and girls can also have a wider range of interests compared to boys with autism.
Camouflage
 According to study 2020, women are more likely to mask their symptoms of autism. This is because girls often feel a stronger desire to fit and associate.
As a result, they can learn and imitate socially acceptable behavior by observing others or watching movies. This constant effort to mix can cause significant stress, anxiety and burnout.
Internalized symptoms
 Boys with autism tend to show more externalized behavior such as aggression or difficulties sitting. On the other hand, the girl is more likely to internalize their struggles, which can lead to depression or anxiety. Outwardly, they may seem shy or downloaded, which is considered to be a more socially acceptable feature for girls.
Customization to social situations
 Women with undiagnosed autism are often pushed to adapt to social standards. As a result, they may seem that they stand up socially on the surface, but may feel in place internally. They may face eye contact, even if they try to force them to do so, and may have difficulty in understanding or respond properly to social stimuli. Being aware of these challenges can increase anxiety and be a social situation still stressful.
Sensitivity
 Adults and ASD often experience increased sensory sensitivity, which can be stunning. What others can consider trivial, such as bright lights or certain odors, can be unbearable for someone with autism. According to the case study 2021, autistic women are often more sensitive to loud sounds, strong fragrances and texture fabrics.
Coexistent conditions
 Calls of life with autism can sometimes lead to the development of other conditions. According to UCL Health, women with autism, especially women diagnosed in adulthood, are more likely to have concurrent conditions.
This is probably because they did not receive the same level of care and support as children with ASD diagnosis and also because of the stress of camouflage their symptoms. As a result, autistic women can also experience ADHD, depression, anxiety, OCD, sleep disorders, eating disorders and TIC disorders such as Tourette’s syndrome.
Challenges with self -regulation and powerful function
 Autistic adults often fight emotional regulation and daily tasks. ASD can complicate the ability to stay organized, make plans or complete tasks that are uninteresting for individuals. This is especially true for women who may be more susceptible to intense emotional reactions and anxiety or discomfort.
Repetitive behavior
 Repetitive behavior is commonly associated with autism and is often used as a form of self -regulation. These behavior, known as “stimulation”, may include manual dlap, rocking or repeating words or phrases. They can also be softer or socially acceptable, such as stimulation, twirling or leather picking. People with autism also tend to fight changes in their routines.
Diagnostics of adult women with autism
 If a person suspects that he may have autism, he should ask his GP for evaluation recommendations. This will usually include a meeting with a psychologist, a neuropsychologist or a psychiatrist who will ask about social and communication skills, sensory reactions, behavior and interests. A medical expert can also talk to family members to better understand before diagnosis.
It is important not to rely on online autism tests because they are often unreliable and are not specially designed to diagnose autism in women. For accurate diagnosis and access to useful sources, it is necessary to consult a professional. These sources may include personal recommendations, support groups and recommendations to mental health experts that can improve the overall quality of life.
In conclusion, the autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in women is often overlooked or poorly diagnosed due to social expectations, diagnostic tools intended primarily for men and tend to mask their symptoms. This results in many women do not receive a diagnosis until adulthood, despite the fact that they have been struggling with the challenges of autism for years.
To ensure proper support and understanding, it is crucial to recognize the unique ways in which ASD is manifested in women, such as intense interests, sensory sensitivity and internalized symptoms.
By recognizing these differences, healthcare workers can provide more accurate diagnoses and tailor -made interventions. If you suspect that you can have autism, finding a professional evaluation is necessary to obtain the right resources and improve overall well -being. With the right support, women with ASD can lead to life and access to the tools they need to prosper.