Does advanced maternal age increase the risk of autism? 

Research suggests that there may be a link between advanced maternal age and autism risk, particularly when mothers are over the age of 35 at the time of delivery. While age alone does not cause autism, it is increasingly seen as a factor that may interact with genetic and environmental influences to affect neurodevelopment. 

Several large-scale studies have explored the connection between advanced maternal age and autism risk, finding modest but consistent associations. The exact mechanisms remain under investigation, but hypotheses include age-related changes in egg quality, increased rates of pregnancy complications, and longer exposure to environmental factors. 

Understanding the Maternal Age Effect 

Here is what scientists are learning about how age might influence outcomes: 

Maternal age effect on developmental pathways  

The maternal age effect refers to the potential biological and epigenetic changes that occur in older pregnancies. These changes may influence hormone levels, placental function, or immune response, subtly shaping neurodevelopmental outcomes in the developing brain. 

Risk is influenced by multiple factors  

It is important to note that advanced maternal age and autism risk should be considered alongside other health variables, such as maternal infections, stress, and family history. Many children born to older mothers develop typically, and age is just one part of a broader risk picture. 

Visit providers like Autism Detect for personal consultations to understand how maternal health and sensory processing impact 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.