Citation

Greer KM, Simić Stanojević I, Cary KM, PettyJohn ME, Piatt JJ, Yarber WL. J. Trauma Dissociation 2023; ePub(ePub): ePub.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2023, Informa - Taylor and Francis Group)

DOI

10.1080/15299732.2023.2212405

PMID

37191020

Abstract

Following the overturning of Roe v. Wade, individuals with autism experience unique barriers to accessing abortion for rape-related pregnancies in states restricting reproductive health care. Barriers to reporting rape include inadequate sex education which contributes to a lack of information about sexual violence (SV), difficulties labeling and recognizing SV, and potential difficulties navigating the role of a caregiver or conservator when reporting SV. Individuals with autism often experience a lack of equitable support from formal SV support services. Both barriers to reporting and lack of equitable support from formal SV support services reflect that individuals with autism are marginalized and often overlooked when receiving sexual and reproductive health care. Suggestions are provided for sexuality educators, SV support services, police, healthcare providers and policymakers, for better supporting individuals with autism experiencing rape-related pregnancy in states with abortion restrictions.

Language: en

Keywords

sexual violence; abortion; autism; rape-related pregnancy