The Menstrual Health and Neurodiversity Project

What we want to find out

This study explores how people with diverse neurotypes experience menstrual symptoms across the menstrual cycle. We are particularly interested in whether autistic people and people with ADHD experience menstrual symptoms differently from those without these conditions, and how these symptoms manifest across different phases of the cycle. 

We will use a validated measure of menstrual distress to understand symptom frequency and severity across three phases: the menstrual phase, the premenstrual phase (the seven days before menstruation), and the intermenstrual phase (other days). We will also examine whether traits related to autism, empathy and systemising are associated with reported menstrual distress.  

Why we are doing this research

Menstrual health is a key part of overall wellbeing, yet neurodivergent individuals’ menstrual health is not well understood. Existing research suggests that autistic individuals may experience higher rates of menstrual health difficulties, including painful periods, irregular cycles, and absence of menstruation. 

Evidence also indicates that autistic people may experience stronger physical, emotional, and social impacts related to menstruation, including increased sensory sensitivities and emotional distress. However, we still know relatively little about how these experiences vary across the cycle or how frequent and severe they are. 

By comparing experiences across a range of neurotypes, including autistic people, people with ADHD and participants without these conditions, we hope to improve understanding of menstrual health in neurodivergent people. In the long term, this work may support more inclusive health research and better-tailored support strategies. 

Method

This study uses an anonymous online questionnaire. 

Who can take part 

We are inviting women (assigned female at birth) aged 18 years or over who currently have a menstrual cycle or have had a menstrual cycle in the past. This study welcomes participants of all genders, including women, trans men, non-binary people, and others who meet the eligibility criteria. 

What participation involves 

Participation involves completing an online survey, which takes around 15-20 minutes. The survey includes: 

1. Background questions (e.g. age, menstrual history, and autism/ADHD diagnosis status). 

2. The Menstrual Distress Questionnaire (MEDI-Q), assessing symptoms and their impact across the menstrual cycle phases. 

3. The Autism Spectrum Quotient (AQ-10), Empathy Quotient (EQ-10) and Systemising Quotient-Revised (SQ-R-10), which measure autistic and psychological traits and how these relate to menstrual distress.  

We have designed the study to be as accessible as possible. The survey uses plain language and a simple layout with clear instructions. Participants can take breaks at any time and return later, with responses set to auto-save. 

To take part, please scan the QR code or follow the link below.

https://cambridge.eu.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_74n19kVY0689GXI 

Community engagement

Before launching the study, we invited feedback from the autism community on the topic and the overall direction of the research, to help ensure the work is meaningful, inclusive, and respectful. 

We received 89 responses to the community engagement survey. Overall, the feedback was largely positive, with respondents describing the research as important and offering constructive comments on the study plan, which were carefully considered in refining the study design.  

Potential impact

This research aims to build a clearer evidence base about menstrual distress in neurodivergent people. By examining symptoms across different phases of the cycle and comparing experiences across neurotypes, the findings may help: 

Results

We anticipate sharing the results in late 2026. When ready, the key findings will be shared on this page. 

Funders

Staff

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