This blog will guide you through some tips for expectant mothers to reduce the risk of autism. The cause of Autism brought forward by doctors & researchers connect it to structural or functional damage to the brain. For example, a mutation can be responsible for irregular brain development leading to autistic characteristics. 

Non-genetic factors or perinatal complications are also connected. For example, maternal bleeding three months into the pregnancy, meconium in the amniotic fluid, insufficient nutrient intake during pregnancy, mercury poisoning, maternal stress, exposure to strong medications, toxins, or radiation can be responsible too.

It is essential to understand that no particular individual or event can be held responsible for the child’s diagnosis. However, child care and treatment can have a good impact in helping the child with Autism.

Here are risk factors for expectant mothers, some of which can be controlled to reduce the risk of Autism in children.

The risk factors for causes of Autism at the Prenatal Stage are:

• A family history of Autism
• Conceived by older parents
• Complications at or shortly after birth or neonatal anaemia
• Maternal infections during pregnancy.
• Metabolic imbalance
• Intrauterine exposure to medications such as antiepileptics, etc. 
• Genetic factors like Fragile X Syndrome
• Recurrent infections at infancy or during gestation
• Low birth weight of the child
• Taking antidepressants during the first three months of pregnancy
• Nutritional deficiencies (like folic acid) early in pregnancy
• Exposure to chemical pollutants, such as heavy metals, toxins and pesticides
• Fetal exposure to the medications valproic acid (Depakene) or thalidomide (Thalomid)

While these are not confirmed, it won’t hurt to take steps now to reduce your baby’s risk of Autism if you’re pregnant or trying to conceive.

Tips to reduce the risk of Autism

• Take Folic acid. Taking 400 micrograms of folic acid each day to help prevent congenital disabilities such as spina bifida
• Ask about Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). Women taking an antidepressant named SSRI, or those who develop depression during pregnancy, should talk with a doctor about the pros and cons of these drugs. Untreated depression in a mother can also affect her child’s well-being later, so this is not a simple decision.
• Practice prenatal care. Eating nutritious food, avoiding infections, and seeing a clinician for regular check-ups can increase the chances of giving birth to a healthy child.

Keep in mind: one child with ASD will not have precisely the same symptoms as another child with ASD. In addition, the number and severity of symptoms can vary a lot!

Check out our blog on Worried that your Child has Autism?