How Does Brain Structure and Function Development Get Altered by Perinatal Infections Causing ADHD?

PostedAugust 18, 2025

UpdatedSeptember 4, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

Author: Harriet Winslow, BSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Perinatal infections can significantly alter brain structure ADHD, affecting the development of key brain areas responsible for attention, memory, and impulse control. When a mother contracts an infection during pregnancy or around the time of birth, it can cause inflammation and disturbances in the developing brain of the infant. These changes in brain structure ADHD are closely linked to ADHD behaviour and can have long-term effects on a child’s neurodevelopment.

Brain scans ADHD often reveal abnormalities in areas like the prefrontal cortex and other regions responsible for executive function. These brain regions are essential for regulating behaviour, decision-making, and emotional responses. When perinatal infections cause brain inflammation, these areas may develop improperly, leading to difficulties with attention, impulse control, and social interactions. The resulting brain structure ADHD can contribute to the characteristic symptoms of ADHD.

Common Symptoms of ADHD Linked to Perinatal Infections

Children affected by perinatal infections may display symptoms typically associated with ADHD, stemming from changes in brain structure ADHD. Here are some of the common signs:

Inattention

Children may struggle to concentrate on tasks for extended periods, frequently becoming distracted or losing focus. They may have trouble following instructions or completing assignments, which can affect their performance in school and other areas of life.

Impulsivity

Impulsive behaviours, such as interrupting conversations, acting without thinking, or making quick decisions without considering the consequences, are common in children with ADHD. These behaviours can disrupt social interactions and hinder academic progress.

Hyperactivity

Restlessness and an inability to sit still are often seen in children with ADHD. This can result in fidgeting, excessive movement, or talking out of turn, which may be challenging for both the child and those around them.

Visit providers like ADHD Certify for personal consultations and expert advice tailored to your needs.

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Brain Structure and Function.

Harriet Winslow, BSc

Author

Harriet Winslow is a clinical psychologist with a Bachelor’s in Clinical Psychology and extensive experience in behaviour therapy and developmental disorders. She has worked with children and adolescents with ADHD, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), learning disabilities, and behavioural challenges, providing individual and group therapy using evidence-based approaches such as CBT and DBT. Dr. Winslow has developed and implemented personalised treatment plans, conducted formal and informal assessments, and delivered crisis intervention for clients in need of urgent mental health care. Her expertise spans assessment, treatment planning, and behavioural intervention for both neurodevelopmental and mental health conditions.

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.