Does maternal hypertension at advanced age connect to autism? 

The link between maternal hypertension and autism is gaining attention, particularly in pregnancies involving advanced maternal age. Hypertension during pregnancy is more common in older mothers and has been associated with various prenatal health risks, but how does it relate to autism? 

Research indicates that maternal hypertension and autism may be connected through disruptions in blood flow, oxygen supply, or inflammation during critical stages of foetal brain development. While this does not mean high blood pressure directly causes autism, it may act as one of several contributing pregnancy complications. When combined with advanced maternal age, the overall risk profile may rise slightly. 

How hypertension may affect development 

Here’s how maternal hypertension and autism may be linked, particularly in older mothers: 

Inflammatory and oxygen-related pathways  

Conditions tied to maternal hypertension can restrict oxygen and nutrients reaching the foetus, potentially influencing neural development. This is especially relevant in the wider field of pregnancy complications autism research. 

Increased vulnerability with age  

With advanced maternal age, existing prenatal health risks can overlap and intensify, making careful blood pressure monitoring an essential part of managing outcomes. 

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.