Can Maternal Infections During Pregnancy Lead to Autism in Children?

PostedNovember 27, 2025

UpdatedDecember 18, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

Author: Hannah Smith, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

The potential link between maternal infections and autism risk is a growing focus in prenatal health research. Increasing studies suggest that when a mother experiences certain infections during pregnancy, it may increase the likelihood of autism in her child. Understanding how maternal infections and autism risk intersect is crucial for shaping better prevention and care strategies.

When a prenatal infection occurs, whether from viruses like influenza, bacteria, or other pathogens, it can trigger inflammation in the mother’s body. This inflammation may cross the placenta and interfere with foetal brain development. Researchers believe that the timing and severity of the infection play a key role in how significantly maternal infections and autism risk are affected.

How Maternal Infections and Autism Risk Influence Foetal Brain Development

Here are some ways maternal infections and autism risk may impact child development:

Inflammatory response to prenatal infection

A prenatal infection can activate the mother’s immune system, releasing inflammatory molecules that can alter neural development in the foetus. This may affect communication between brain cells and lead to changes associated with autism.

Pregnancy complications linked to infection

Infections during pregnancy can lead to pregnancy complications such as preterm birth or restricted foetal growth, both of which are associated with higher autism risk. These complications may arise when infections are left untreated or occur during critical stages of development.

Timing matters

The mid-second trimester appears to be a particularly vulnerable period. Infections during this time may have a more pronounced impact on brain structure and function, strengthening the connection between maternal infections and autism risk.

Visit providers like Autism Detect for personal consultations to understand how maternal infections and autism risk may affect your child’s development and explore ways to prevent or manage prenatal infection and related pregnancy complications.

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Maternal Health and Infections.

Hannah Smith, MSc

Author

Hannah Smith is a clinical psychologist with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and over three years of experience in behaviour therapy, special education, and inclusive practices. She specialises in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), and inclusive education strategies. Hannah has worked extensively with children and adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), ADHD, Down syndrome, and intellectual disabilities, delivering evidence-based interventions to support development, mental health, and 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.