Is There a Link Between Maternal Urinary Tract Infections and Autism?

PostedNovember 27, 2025

UpdatedNovember 27, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

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

Ongoing research is exploring the potential association between maternal UTI and autism risk, focusing on how infections during pregnancy might impact foetal brain development. Maternal UTI and autism risk are being studied as part of a broader investigation into prenatal bacterial infections and their role in increasing the chances of neurodevelopmental conditions such as autism.

A urinary tract infection during pregnancy is not uncommon, and while many cases are mild and easily treatable, some may lead to inflammation or complications if left unaddressed. These inflammatory responses may affect the developing brain, especially if the bacterial infection occurs in early to mid-pregnancy, when neural pathways are forming. This strengthens the case for investigating how maternal UTI and autism risk are biologically linked.

How Maternal UTI and Autism Risk May Affect Foetal Brain Development

Here are ways in which maternal UTI and autism risk might be connected:

Inflammatory impact of bacterial infection

A bacterial infection such as UTI can lead to systemic inflammation. During pregnancy, this can cross the placenta and disrupt foetal brain development, particularly in areas tied to social and cognitive function.

Urinary tract infection pregnancy complications

A urinary tract infection during pregnancy that progresses without treatment can lead to complications such as preterm birth or low birth weight, both of which are associated with increased autism risk. This highlights the need for early detection and management.

Timing and immune response

The timing of a maternal UTI and autism risk relationship is key. Infections during the first or second trimester are most strongly associated with changes in foetal brain development due to heightened maternal immune responses.

Visit providers like Autism Detect for personal consultations to understand how maternal UTI and autism risk may affect your child’s development and explore ways to manage urinary tract infection during pregnancy safely.

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.