Research highlights strong links between self-compassion and mental health, but there is very limited research specifically exploring autistic individual's experiences of self-compassion. The process of receiving a diagnosis on the autism spectrum can be complex and autistic women tend to experience several barriers to diagnosis. This study adds to the growing area of research exploring autistic women's experiences of receiving a diagnosis in adulthood. This study employs Interpretative phenomenological analysis to explore if receiving a diagnosis of Autism influences women's perceptions of self-compassion. The findings may inform client-centred practices in health care settings and potentially present positive aspects of autism diagnosis.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Able to consent to participate
• Cisgender female (female at birth and raised as female).
• Speak English fluently
• Received an Autism Spectrum Disorder diagnosis, aged 18 years old or above

Exclusion Criteria:

• Lack capacity to consent to participate in the study
• Unable to speak English fluently
• Have not received an Autism diagnosis
• Have received Autism diagnosis prior to their 18th birthday
• Have an intellectual disability
• Born male

To be cisgender female (female at birth and raised as female).

Women who have received their diagnosis on the autism spectrum over the age of 18 years old.

All electronic data including transcripts and audio recordings will be stored in the university data repository, until publication and dissemination of the study is completed. The paper copies of anonymized interview transcripts will be stored in a locked cabinet in the research administration office at the university of Sheffield, for a maximum of six years and then destroyed confidentially.