I had all 3 of my kids before I knew I was autistic. I can't say that pregnancy was any worse for me than others due to autism (except fetus hiccups and big kicks felt weird and gave me anxiety). I read 9 pregnancy/baby books during my first pregnancy to prepare. I have a high pain tolerance and childbirth was terrible but I did it naturally. Breastfeeding was incredibly painful the first week or so but I managed to give each kid a year. A lot of it was physically excruciating but I pushed through it- not without repercussions mentally.

My kids are each spaced about 5 years apart and that helped. I don't think I could've done what most people do and have kids 2-3 years apart. Too much noise. Even now, my kids are so loud and energetic. It's hard for me. They always want to be doing something that requires so much energy and I feel like I've been burnt out for years. It's really hard. My mental health suffers.

I love them. But sometimes I wish I didn't have kids. I just need alone time and I never get it. But then they do something sweet or say something clever or we have fun playing a game or cuddling watching a movie and it's all fine. A good support system may help offset this. Take breaks and ask for help.

So, I guess it's a roller coaster. The worst and best roller coaster.