Can infections during pregnancy increase ADHD risk in preterm babies?

PostedAugust 20, 2025

UpdatedSeptember 4, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

Author: Avery Lombardi, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Indeed, there is a known connection between infections, pregnancy, and ADHD, especially in cases of preterm births. Research shows that infections during pregnancy can affect the developing brain, increasing the likelihood of attention and behavioural challenges in children born prematurely.

When a mother experiences a pregnancy infection, her immune system responds by releasing substances that can cross the placenta, potentially affecting the baby’s brain development. These infections, especially those that occur early in pregnancy, can disrupt the formation of neural pathways responsible for attention and impulse control. As a result, the neuro risk for preterm babies increases, leading to a higher likelihood of developing ADHD signs later in life. This highlights a strong relation between infections, pregnancy, and ADHD.

Types of Infections and Their Impact on ADHD Risk

Infections during pregnancy can vary, but some have a more significant impact on the developing brain. Below are the most common pregnancy infection types linked to ADHD.

Urinary tract infections (UTIs)

Common during pregnancy and, if left untreated, may contribute to brain development issues, increasing ADHD risk in preterm infants.

Viral infections

Infections like influenza, rubella, or Zika virus can directly affect foetal brain development and are associated with higher rates of ADHD symptoms in childhood.

Bacterial infections

Chronic or untreated bacterial infections, such as periodontal disease or certain respiratory infections, may increase the chances of neurodevelopmental disorders in preterm babies.

Monitoring and treating infections during pregnancy is essential for reducing neuro risk for both mother and baby.

Visit providers like ADHD Certify for personal consultations and guidance on managing health during pregnancy.

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to premature birth or low birth weight.

Avery Lombardi, MSc

Author

Avery Lombardi is a clinical psychologist with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and a Bachelor’s in Psychology. She has professional experience in psychological assessment, evidence-based therapy, and research, working with both child and adult populations. Avery has provided clinical services in hospital, educational, and community settings, delivering interventions such as CBT, DBT, and tailored treatment plans for conditions including anxiety, depression, and developmental disorders. She has also contributed to research on self-stigma, self-esteem, and medication adherence in psychotic patients, and has created educational content on ADHD, treatment options, and daily coping strategies.

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.