© Shutterstock

Introduction to autism spectrum disorder (ASD) -

Autism, also known as autism spectrum disorder, describes several neurodevelopmental conditions.

© Shutterstock

Who can be diagnosed with Autism? -

ASD can affect people globally regardless of their race, ethnicity, culture, or economic background. Although it often presents differently in each person, everyone is susceptible.

© Shutterstock

Gender and autism: key statistics -

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) tells us that autism is more often diagnosed in boys than girls. In fact, a study including eight-year-olds in 11 locations within the USA found a 4.3 to 1, boy-to-girl ratio in 2016.

© Shutterstock

Genetic factors in autism -

Genetic factors are estimated to contribute to ASD risk between 40% to 80%. These gene variants alongside environmental risk factors such as birth complications or parental age, can impact an individual's risk of developing this condition.

© Shutterstock

Why are girls less frequently diagnosed? -

Autism spectrum disorder screenings were originally developed based predominately on men and boys. Therefore, some of the screenings aren't sensitive enough to detect how autism manifests itself differently in women and girls.

© Shutterstock

Language and terminology in autism -

Different people prefer different terminology surrounding their autism. For example, some use "autistic girls and women" while others prefer "girls and women living with an autism spectrum disorder."

© Shutterstock

Limitations of current research -

Current research is based on cisgender, people or those whose sex assigned at birth aligns with their gender identity.

© Shutterstock

Symptom expression in boys vs. girls -

While the symptoms of autism are usually similar or the same between girls and boys, how they're expressed can differ greatly.

© Shutterstock

Subtle symptom presentation in girls -

Differences in gender in those with autism spectrum disorder are more likely to be overlooked when they’re subtle. Such is the case with girls with mild autism, as their symptoms can often be less apparent.

© Shutterstock

Signs of autism in women and girls -

It can be more challenging to recognize repetitive behaviors and fixations in girls. For example, a young girl may appear to be playing with dolls but upon further inspection, she is actually repetitively organizing the dolls and accessories.

© Shutterstock

Examples in communication -

Symptoms of autism can include, differences in eye contact, trouble using gestures such as pointing, difficulties with communication, and many more.

© Shutterstock

Routines and reactions -

Girls with autism may strongly adhere to routines and react poorly to changes.

© Shutterstock

Sensory sensitivities -

Certain sensory stimuli like loud noises, various textures, and the way clothing fits can affect an autistic person.

© Shutterstock

Repetitive behaviors -

Another tale-tell sign of autism is engaging in repetitive actions like stacking toys or arranging objects.

© Shutterstock

Fixations or special interests -

Some girls will become focused on specific interests, topics, or items, often exclusive of other interests.

© Shutterstock

Why girls with autism go undiagnosed -

Symptoms in girls may be less apparent. This is especially true in girls with mild autism.

© Shutterstock

Gender bias in diagnostic screenings - Screening tools are largely based on studies of autistic boys and men. This can mean that autism in women remains unaddressed.

© Shutterstock

Social camouflaging or masking -

Due to a mix of social conditioning and cultural norms, girls may engage more in what is known as social camouflaging or masking.

© Shutterstock

Examples of masking in girls -

Girls with autism may be more aware of their social difficulties and work to study how other girls interact to fit in. For example, in one study, the girls with autism who preferred to play independently still stayed closer to the group.

© Shutterstock

Consequences of masking -

Whether subconsciously or on purpose, masking can mean that many little girls or women aren't able to get the help they need because they are unaware of their condition.

© Shutterstock

Challenges for autistic girls and women -

Autism can be associated with other conditions like sleep problems, feeding issues, epilepsy, and mental health challenges.

© Shutterstock

Support for girls and women with autism -

If you end up being concerned that your child isn't engaging as much with others or is having a difficult time in social situations, there is help available.

© Shutterstock

Resources for families and individuals -

It's advised to talk to a pediatric healthcare provider to help you understand the milestones your child should be reaching at different ages.

© Shutterstock

FAQ: What are early signs of autism? - Lack of or delay in the development of spoken language, repetitive use of language and/or motor mannerisms like hand-flapping or twirling objects, little or no eye contact, lack of interest in peer relationships, and more.

© Shutterstock

FAQ: What is the difference between autism and Asperger's disorder? -

Unlike autism, Asperger's disorder shows no early language or developmental delays, often leading to later diagnosis as children meet typical milestones but struggle socially.

© Shutterstock

FAQ: Are there medication treatments for autism? -

Currently, there are no medications specifically for treating the core symptoms of autism. However, when behaviors like self-harm, mood instability, or aggression occur, medication may be helpful. The FDA has approved risperidone to manage severe mood swings and aggressive behaviors in individuals with autism.

© Shutterstock

FAQ: What is the biggest issue with autism? -

One symptom of being autistic is that there are sensory challenges. Many times, noises are too loud, the light is too bright, and the child can be very distressed by certain aromas, textures, and tastes.

Sources: (Clevland Clinic) (Healthline) (Medline Plus) (Autism Speaks)

See also: The biggest myths about autism

© Shutterstock