Does egg quality decline with advanced maternal age relate to autism? 

Researchers are increasingly examining the link between maternal age and egg quality in autism, with growing evidence suggesting that biological changes in ageing eggs may play a role in neurodevelopmental outcomes. As women age, the health and integrity of their eggs, also known as oocytes, decline, which could influence the likelihood of genetic or structural anomalies during early development. 

The association between maternal age and egg quality in autism focuses on how factors like meiotic error and mitochondrial function may impact the foetus. These cellular changes can subtly affect how the brain develops in utero, potentially increasing autism susceptibility. 

How Egg Health Influences Development 

Here’s how ageing oocytes could contribute to autism risk: 

Meiotic error and chromosomal balance  

As maternal age rises, the chances of meiotic error, which are mistakes during the egg’s division process, increase. These errors can lead to chromosomal abnormalities or uneven genetic contributions, which may disrupt early brain development and heighten the risk for autism. 

Mitochondrial function and oocyte quality  

Older eggs often show reduced mitochondrial function, which is crucial for energy production in early embryonic cells. Poor mitochondrial health in the egg may affect cellular development in the nervous system, tying maternal age and egg quality in autism to subtle metabolic influences. 

While most older women have healthy pregnancies, these findings highlight the importance of understanding how egg biology changes with age and how it may relate to developmental outcomes. 

Visit providers like Autism Detect for personal consultations to understand how maternal biology and age-related changes may influence your child’s development and how to support effective sensory regulation and comfort. 

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Advanced Parental Age.

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.