Reasons why women with autism are misdiagnosed

Research shows that almost 80% of women with Autism are misdiagnosed. This raises important questions about the state of mental health and developmental disability awareness in young and adult women.

An early and accurate diagnosis of Autism or other intellectual and developmental disabilities is crucial. It helps individuals understand themselves better, recognise their behavioural patterns, and begin therapies or interventions that can support their well-being. Unfortunately, for many women, this opportunity is missed.

Why Autism often goes unnoticed in women

There are several reasons why Autism in females is underdiagnosed or misdiagnosed:

1. Different presentation than in males
   Most diagnostic criteria are based on male presentations of Autism. For example, limited eye contact or difficulty in holding conversations are often markers for diagnosis. However, many women with Autism may maintain eye contact, use gestures, and hold conversations, often leading professionals to overlook them.

2. Camouflaging or masking
   Women often develop coping strategies to blend in socially. They may mimic social behaviours, hide their difficulties, or overcompensate to appear “typical.” This camouflaging makes it harder for teachers, families, and even doctors to notice signs.

3. Gender bias in research and diagnosis
   Studies have historically shown Autism as more common in males, which has created a bias. As a result, professionals may not expect to see Autism in females and therefore miss it.

4. Other diagnoses overshadowing Autism
   Many women with Autism struggle with low self-esteem, anxiety, or depression. These challenges are often treated in isolation, masking the underlying Autism diagnosis.

Why it matters

When Autism goes undiagnosed, women often grow up feeling that something is “wrong” with them, without having the clarity of why. This can lead to frustration, mental health challenges, and difficulties in relationships, education, and work.

Missed diagnoses also delay access to support systems, therapies, and communities where they might feel understood and accepted.

What to look out for while diagnosing women

If you are wondering about Autism in women, here are some patterns that may be overlooked:

• Reliance on camouflaging or masking in social situations.
• Struggles with self-esteem, depression, or anxiety alongside other difficulties.
• Behaviours that fit within stereotypical “female” roles and therefore do not raise concern.

Recognising these patterns is the first step. Professionals need to move away from looking at Autism only through a male lens and instead account for the unique ways it presents in females

Autism may not always be obvious, but it deserves attention, care, and understanding. By being more mindful of how it shows up in women, we can make sure fewer lives are shaped by confusion and missed opportunities for support.

If you have questions about Autism, Down Syndrome, ADHD, or other developmental differences, or if you are concerned about delays in a child’s development, the Nayi Disha team is here to help.

Our FREE Helpline is available at 844-844-8996 (call or WhatsApp). Our counselors speak English, Hindi, Malayalam, Gujarati, Marathi, Telugu, and Bengali.

Disclaimer: This article is for information purposes only.

Sources:

• NIH: Autism Spectrum Disorder in Women

• PubMed: Autism and Gender Differences

• TIME: Autism and Girls