Neurodiversity and contraception

About me

I am an Intercalating medical student (just finished third year) with an interest in paediatrics and primary care. I am currently president of the University of Sheffield Anatomy Society, as well as Technical Coordinator for the Sheffield University Performing Arts Society.

Outside of my degree, I work as technical staff at the University's Performance Venues. I also enjoy climbing, knitting and crocheting!

About the project

Why this project?

My interest in this project comes from frequently hearing, both online and from friends in person, about how difficult it is to navigate starting hormonal birth control. Regardless of their reasoning for using contraception, it is clear how common it is to need to try multiple different forms of birth control, all while dealing with unexpected side effects from each one. It baffles me that something which is an integral part of so many people's day-to-day lives is still so underresearched, and I want to be part of improving the experience of hormonal birth control.

While research exists into this subject, there is still a lack of opportunities for neurodivergent people to have their voices heard on the topic.

As a medical student with an interest in General Practice but who knew very little about opportunities for research in Primary Care, I am excited to gain experience in this field and hopefully improve the visibility of Primary Care research for other medical students.

Get involved

Who is eligible to take part?

We are looking for people who fulfil the following criteria:

• Aged 18 or over

• Assigned Female at Birth

• Has ADHD or autism (no formal diagnosis needed)

• Currently or have previously used any form of contraception

What does taking part involve?

Taking part will involve participating in an interview, which can be either online (through Google Meet) or in person. I will ask you questions about your experiences of accessing and using contraception, with the goal of understanding how access to contraception differs for people who have Autism or ADHD compared to neurotypical people.

If you are interested in taking part, the list of questions will be sent to you in advance before you confirm whether you would like to participate.

Following the interview, you will be asked to complete a short survey to collect some demographic information.

How can I take part?

If you are interested or for more information, please get in touch:

Siân Beddows

sbeddows1@sheffield.ac.uk

07584 921295