Autism and Sexual Activity
Yes! Individuals with autism spectrum disorder or autism can engage in sexual activities. Similarly to people without autism, they have sexual desires and needs, although these might be expressed differently. It's important to note that, as with all individuals, consent, understanding, and safety are paramount in any sexual activity.
What Is Autism?
Autism, or also known as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a term that describes a group of neurodevelopmental conditions. It is referred to as a spectrum condition because the symptoms vary from person to person and range from mild to severe [1, 2]. These conditions affect people all around the world, regardless of their race, ethnicity, culture, or economic background. ASD conditions are characterized by differences in communication a social interaction.
ASD is a lifelong condition. It affects how people interact with the world and how they perceive it [3]. Typically, patients with ASD have restricted and repetitive interests or patterns of behavior.
The main cause of ASD is considered to be genetic. Up to 90% have a genetic component of the disease [4]. However, environmental factors can also play a role [5, 6, 7]. Interestingly, ASD is diagnosed more often in boys than girls according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). In addition, they also estimate that 1 in every 54 children is autistic [1, 5, 6, 7]. Due to its prevalence and the disabling consequences it has on cognitive, social, and emotional development, it is recognized as one of the major public health issues [8].
Can People With Autism Have Sex?
Yes! People with Autism can have sex and also can participate in other sexual activities. In fact, these people can have as enjoyable intimate life as people without. Studies show that individuals with ASD have similar levels of desire for sexual and romantic relationships as people without autism [9, 10]. In addition, individuals with autism report similar levels of sexual satisfaction as people without [9].
Although people with ASD might not have problems with sexual activities or impaired satisfaction, they may experience difficulties with communication and social interactions. It is usually these that lead to challenges in romantic relationships and sexual functioning [11]. For instance, autistic adults are less likely to be in relationships and have less dating experience [10].
Interestingly, individuals with ASD, especially women, show higher diversity in sexual orientation compared to non-ASD people [11].
On the other hand, it is important to also note that problematic sexual behaviors such as public masturbation or paraphilic sexual interests, were reported in the ASD population [11].
It's important to note that a considerable rate of problematic sexual behaviors, including public masturbation and paraphilic sexual interests, were found in the ASD population [11].
So while people with ASD can have sex, they may face other challenges in relationships such as problems with communication or inappropriate public sexual behavior [9]. Therefore sexual education and support can help with navigating a healthy sexual life.
Can People With Autism Have Children?
Yes! People with autism can have children. As we uncovered previously, autistic people can have sex and can have similar sexual satisfaction just like non-autistic individuals.
In fact, studies have found no evidence supporting the link between ASD and infertility [12].
However, it is important to remember that autism is a highly heritable condition. In terms of genetic factors, both parents can contribute genetic factors for ASD, though recent research has shed light on potential parent-specific genetic influences [13]. There are many parents with significant autistic traits who have children with autism as well [11]. It is also important to say that parenting can present a set of unique challenges for people with autism. For example, parents with autism may have higher levels of stress, depression, and anxiety during pregnancy and after compared to non-autistic parents [14].
We also wrote a blog about whether autistic people can drive. So if you are interested in finding out more, give it a read.