Is foetal distress as an environmental factor connected to autism development?

PostedNovember 25, 2025

UpdatedNovember 25, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

Author: Lucia Alvarez, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Yes, research has begun to explore whether foetal distress & autism may be connected, especially in cases involving serious delivery complications. Foetal distress refers to signs that a baby is not coping well during labour, such as abnormal heart rate or reduced oxygen levels. These stressful conditions can affect the brain’s development and may be considered a contributing environmental factor to autism development.

While foetal distress alone does not cause autism, when it occurs alongside other risk factors, like genetic predispositions or premature birth, it may increase the likelihood of neurodevelopmental differences.

How Foetal Distress May Influence Autism Development

Here are two key ways foetal distress during delivery could be linked to autism development:

Oxygen deprivation and brain stress

A lack of oxygen during distress episodes can interfere with neural development, particularly in brain areas responsible for communication and sensory processing.

Triggering of inflammatory or stress responses

The physiological stress of foetal distress may lead to inflammatory reactions or hormonal changes in the newborn, which could influence how neurons form and connect in the early days of life.

Understanding the link between foetal distress & autism supports the need for close labour monitoring and timely delivery decisions to protect neurological health. Visit providers like Autism Detect for personal consultations and further guidance on screening and support.

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Environmental Factors.

Lucia Alvarez, MSc

Author

Lucia Alvarez is a clinical psychologist with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and extensive experience providing evidence-based therapy and psychological assessment to children, adolescents, and adults. Skilled in CBT, DBT, and other therapeutic interventions, she has worked in hospital, community, and residential care settings. Her expertise includes grief counseling, anxiety management, and resilience-building, with a strong focus on creating safe, supportive environments to improve mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy.

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Reviewer

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy.