In this episode of the Art of the Referral podcast, host Anna O'Brien and Dr. Theobald discuss the nuances of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), particularly focusing on gender differences in diagnosis and symptom presentation. They explore the challenges faced by women with autism, including the subtleties of social communication, the impact of late diagnosis, and the phenomenon of camouflaging. The conversation emphasizes the importance of accurate diagnosis and the need for clinicians to be more aware of the signs of autism in women, as well as the implications for treatment and support.   Takeaways: The conversation highlights the importance of understanding gender differences in autism diagnosis. Women often present with more subtle symptoms of autism, making diagnosis challenging. Accurate diagnosis can be life-changing for individuals who have struggled with misdiagnoses. Social communication differences are significant in women with autism, impacting their relationships. Camouflaging is a common coping mechanism for women with autism, leading to exhaustion. Clinicians need to consider autism more frequently in their evaluations, especially for women. The DSM-5 criteria for autism include persistent deficits in social communication and restricted behaviors. Girls may not show obvious signs of autism in early childhood, leading to later diagnoses. Understanding the inner experience of women with autism is crucial for effective treatment. There is a need for more research and awareness around autism in females.