A complex neurodevelopmental disorder, Autism (or Autism Spectrum Disorder/ASD) is estimated to affect 1 of every 100 children globally. One of the big questions many aspiring parents have, is whether, during pregnancy, there are early signals that their child will develop autism.
Here, we discuss the risks to the mother and fetus, the early warnings to look out for, and what science can currently say about how autism can be detected in utero.
What is Autism?
Autism Spectrum Disorder, commonly referred to as ASD, is a type of neurodevelopmental disorder that involves impairments in social interaction, highly restricted interests, and repetitive behaviors. The term “spectrum” means persons with autism can exhibit a wide range of functioning and symptoms that might be unique to the individual. Whereas the usual age for autism diagnosis lies within early childhood, suggest that some risk factors for autism may be identified during pregnancy.
Understanding Autism and Its Impact
Autism influences the way a person thinks, interacts with others, and experiences the world. Some children may find it difficult to communicate and speak, other children may find it difficult to make eye contact or develop relationships with their peers. Autism has become more common in recent years, and according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 1 in 36 children in the United States have been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). As the incidence increases, so does the need for potential markers to be studied as early as pregnancy to promote early intervention and support.
Overview of Pregnancy and Autism
Most parents are oblivious to the fact that there are a few factors during pregnancy that predispose their child to autism. Autism signs during pregnancy are not clear-cut symptoms, but rather a set of maternal and fetus conditions associated with a greater risk of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). As always, these signs are not diagnostic (even if you or your partner are diagnosed with non-cyclic autism), but they are important to share as they can lead to healthier pregnancy workups and the best outcomes for the child.
For a personal insight into raising children with autism, read this touching story of a mother’s journey: Understanding Autism: A Mother’s Journey of Raising Two Autistic Children.
Maternal Health Factors Linked to Autism
Gestational Diabetes and Pregnancy-Related Illnesses
Maternal health factors are among the major prenatal risk factors for autism, including gestational diabetes. Indeed, the present studies, as well as others conducted earlier in Saudi Arabia, have identified that pregnant women with gestational diabetes may be at higher risk of having their children diagnosed as ASD cases. The risk will be much higher for mothers who had Type 2 diabetes while pregnant, as it increased the child’s vulnerability to ASD up to 11 times more than in those without diabetes.
Maternal Age
Another important consideration is advanced maternal age. The odds of a child receiving an autism diagnosis are greater when the mother is aged 35 or older. Raising awareness of this potential risk factor is particularly important as the age of women giving birth to their first child is rising. Studies indicate that biological changes associated with aging in women may result in developmental problems for the fetus.
Infections and Autoimmune Conditions
studies indicates that mothers who have an infection or an autoimmune disease, such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus, during pregnancy could be at an increased risk of having a child with autism. Viral or bacterial infections, especially in the first two trimesters, have been known to complicate fetal development, studies have shown. Furthermore, some maternal autoimmune conditions during the time of fetal development, e.g., lupus or rheumatoid arthritis have also been associated with higher rates of ASD.
Genetic Contributions to Autism
Whereas it may be influenced by prenatal factors, consideration must be taken into account regarding genetic influences. Autism has a strong genetic component. There is an increased risk in offspring for ASD if there is a family history of neurodevelopmental disorders. Twin studies show that with the incidence of one twin diagnosed with autism, the chances of the other twin being diagnosed with it are typically high, which shows the influence genetics may have.
Want to learn more about autism beyond early signs? Explore the Symptoms of Autism in Adults to better understand how autism presents itself later in life.
Environmental Factors Influencing Autism
Prenatal Exposure to Toxins
The existence of harmful environmental factors like pesticides, air pollution, and heavy metals increase the risk of developing autism. Pregnant women living in highly polluted areas are at a higher risk of having children diagnosed with ASD. Some researchers reveal that these toxic pollutants interfere with the normal development of the brain of the fetus and increase neurodevelopmental disorders.
Medications During Pregnancy
Some medications, such as valproic acid, an anticonvulsant used to treat epilepsy, and antidepressants, have been linked to an increased risk for autism when taken during pregnancy. For this reason, pregnant women should discuss with their healthcare providers any medications they are taking that could impact fetal development.
factors that may affect fetal development and increase the risk of autism
Low Birth Weight and Premature Birth
Birth weight and gestational age are two of the most critical indicators of poor prognosis in terms of neurological development, including the development of autism. Low birth weight (forceps delivery/breech birth having a birth weight below 2, 500 g) or being born before 37 weeks of gestation (premature supplement) plays a stronger risk for ASD. These conditions can alter the way the brain develops, so it is essential to monitor early.
Umbilical Cord Complications
One more possible indication of autism before birth is issues with the umbilical cord, such as the umbilical cord being wrapped around the baby’s neck.. Studies have found that infants afflicted with these conditions are subsequently found to be more likely to develop autism.
Understanding Early Detection Techniques
Ultrasounds and Prenatal Screening
While there isn’t a surefire pregnancy test to determine autism, some technologies monitor fetal development and can highlight potential risk factors. For instance, ultrasounds monitor the growth of the fetus, and some doctors may notice markers in the development which will require investigation upon arrival of the baby.
Genetic Counseling
Genetic counseling may be informative regarding risk for families with a history of autism. Genetic tests can diagnose chromosomal abnormalities or genetic mutations that are associated with ASD. These tests do not confirm autism but will give a heads-up to the parents in preparation or as an understanding of the needs of the child.
How Expectant Mothers Can Minimize Risks
Maintaining a Healthy Diet
A proper diet can reduce the risk of the defects by providing all vital nutrients. Research suggests that taking prenatal vitamins, especially folic acid, during the first trimester may reduce the risk of neurodevelopmental disorders. Although folic acid is important during neural development, and its intake during pregnancy should be sufficient.
Avoiding Exposure to Harmful Substances
Women who are expecting must limit their exposure to toxic chemicals like pesticides, smoke and pollutants. Minimizing interaction with these substances can lower the risk of developmental issues.
Regular Prenatal Checkups
Consistent prenatal care allows the health professional to monitor maternal and fetal health closely. Early detection of complications therefore leads to early interventions, improving outcomes for mother and child. The course of regular checkups makes the doctor aware of several risk factors, such as gestational diabetes, that may affect fetal development.
Final Thoughts
Being able to recognize the signs of autism during pregnancy helps expectant parents prepare to make the most educated decisions to find optimal care for their bond to be born. Although you can not necessarily prevent autism, knowing the risk factors related to it (maternal behaviours; environmental exposures and fetal complications) can help parents make better decisions to enhance the health of their child.
Autism is a spectrum, and no two children with autism are alike – strengths and challenges abound! With early intervention, children with autism can learn the skills they need to interact with their peers and become active members of society.
"While there are no definitive signs of autism detectable during pregnancy, understanding risk factors such as maternal health and environmental influences can help expectant parents make better-informed decisions." — Dr. Sarah Johnson, Pediatric Neurodevelopment Specialist.