What Is Pregnancy?

This carefully written and illustrated book provides an explanation of pregnancy for people with autism and special education needs and disabilities (SEND). It helps readers to understand the physical processes of pregnancy, as well as important practical information, such as how to stay healthy in pregnancy, antenatal care, the role of the midwife and the involvement of partners.

Many people with autism and SEND may want or plan to have children. Many women who have autism, special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) have poor experiences of prenatal and postnatal care and high levels of stress, anxiety and depression or do not disclose their pregnancy until far into their terms due to fears of forced termination. This book frankly explains pregnancy so that the reader has a clear understanding of what constitutes pregnancy, what happens during labour and is aware of their legal right to create a family.

About the Authors

Kate E. Reynolds MDS, PGDC, PGDHE, BSc (Hons) SA, RGN is mother to two young people on the autism spectrum, one of whom has intellectual disabilities. She worked for the UK's National Health Service for 18 years, largely in HIV and sexual health. Kate has written 12 books, most published by Jessica Kingsley Publishers and almost all about aspects of relationships and sexuality. She works closely with parents and professionals, as a trainer, consultant and researcher. Kate speaks at conferences and briefed the All Party Parliamentary Group about sex education and disability.

Jonathon Powell lives in Brisbane, Australia and has a Diploma in Fine Art and Bachelor of Animation at Griffith University, Queensland. He has illustrated for the 'Sexuality and Safety with Tom & Ellie' six book series by Kate E. Reynolds, 'Can I tell you about PDA syndrome' by Ruth Fidler & Phil Christie, and 'Making Sense of Sex' by Sarah Attwood, all published by Jessica Kingsley Publishers. He provided artwork and animations for Family Planning Queensland (True) including an education annual 'Talking About It' and a CD-Rom package 'Puberty Plus'. Jonathon also illustrated 'What are Relationships?' by Kate E. Reynolds.