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Can a Low Apgar Score at Birth Increase the Risk of Autism? 

Posted
Updated
ByMy Patient Advice
Author: Beatrice Holloway, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Research indicates that a low Apgar score and autism may be connected, though the relationship is nuanced. A major study spanning over 5.5 million births found that infants with a 5-minute Apgar score of 1–3 had about a 1.4-times higher risk of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), while those with slightly better scores (4–6) had around a 1.5-times higher risk, compared to those with scores of 7–10. The risk was even more pronounced in cases of autistic disorder, rising to approximately 1.9‑fold for the lowest scores. 

This association remained significant even when accounting for neonatal assessment measures such as prematurity and birth complications, suggesting that a low Apgar score itself often reflecting early distress merits attention in developmental monitoring. 

Start your Autism self-screening

Why Awareness Matters 

Understanding this link allows for more informed early care: 

Timely Developmental Tracking 

Children with low Apgar scores benefit from proactive developmental check-ins to support early detection of any delays. 

Targeted Interventions 

Early therapy like speech or occupational support can significantly improve outcomes when subtle indicators emerge. 

Balanced Perspective 

It’s important to note that most newborns with low Apgar scores do not go on to develop autism. Instead, Apgar data serves as one informative piece among many within an overall developmental profile. 

For caring, evidence-informed guidance tailored to your child’s journey, visit Autism Detect for personal consultations.  

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Pre‑natal and Birth‑related Factors.  

Beatrice Holloway, MSc
Author

Beatrice Holloway is a clinical psychologist with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and a BS in Applied Psychology. She specialises in CBT, psychological testing, and applied behaviour therapy, working with children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), developmental delays, and learning disabilities, as well as adults with bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, anxiety, OCD, and substance use disorders. Holloway creates personalised treatment plans to support emotional regulation, social skills, and academic progress in children, and delivers evidence-based therapy to improve mental health and well-being across all ages.

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. 

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