Maternity Autism Research Group
Information about autism relating to pregnancy and maternity care
One Year On: Advancing Best Practice in Maternity Care and Autism
The Maternity and Autism Research Group host a one year anniversary celebration of the launch of their Best Practice Guidelines- designed by Autistic midwives and researchers to help tailor care more effectively to Autistic persons needs and empower their birth experience.
We hear from MARG Chair Hayley Morgan, followed by Hannah Gardner from Swansea Bay University Health Board. Hannah presents her findings and experience of implementing the guidelines at her health board and how she embedded Autistic voices throughout. After a panel Q and A, we hear research 'lightning talks' from Dr Garcia-Molina from the University of Jaume (accessed separately below), Karen Henry from the University of Suffolk and Hayley Morgan from Swansea University. We finish with live Q and As from the audience. As always, thanks ever so much to all that attending what was an affirming event full of promise and change.
NB: this event includes presenters providing descriptions of data reporting stigma, prejudice and increased incidences of social services referral. These are generated from existing research data and are not the experience of every Autistic person in maternity care.
'Building from within': Spanish Autistic motherhood, sensory experience and the protocol we still need- Dr Irene Garcia-Molina (2026)
Dr Garcia-Molina introduces fascinating new nuances to discussions around autism, identity and maternity care by introducing the contexts unique to Spain. This lightning talk is provided separately to the above event due to sound issues during the event.
Missed out on our Guidelines launch?
Catch up on our event!
The Maternity and Autism Research Group (MARG) Best Practice Guidelines Launch: A Powerful Moment for Change.
The official launch of MARG’s groundbreaking Best Practice Guidelines- developed by Autistic midwives, for midwives- was a resounding success. The event was filled with insightful questions, meaningful connections, and a powerful surge of emotion and determination to improve care for Autistic women and birthing people during pregnancy and childbirth. The drive for change was palpable, and we’re excited to see how these guidelines will shape more inclusive and compassionate maternity care.
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The resources from the launch are available below, and contacting MARG couldn't be easier- either select the individual via the Our Team page or email the group inbox manned by Chair and Co-Chair via Contact Us.
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