Could prolonged labour that causes low birth weight increase autism risk?

PostedDecember 1, 2025

UpdatedDecember 1, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

Author: Lucia Alvarez, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Labour complications can have lasting effects on a child’s health. One scenario of concern is prolonged labour, which may lead to low birth weight due to sustained birth stress or compromised oxygen flow. But can prolonged labour also raise the risk of autism?

How Prolonged Labour Might Affect Neurodevelopment

Links between prolonged labour and autism are being explored through the lens of birth stress. When labour is extended beyond the expected duration, the baby may experience dystocia, or difficulty in being delivered. This often results in emergency interventions and may contribute to fetal compromise.

In such situations, reduced oxygen levels and high stress can impair brain development, particularly in low birth weight infants whose systems are already vulnerable. These overlapping risk factors raise concern about connections between prolonged labour and autism.

The Role of Birth Weight

Babies born small after prolonged labour may not have had sufficient placental support during the birth process. This combination of birth stress and underdevelopment is a notable contributor to later outcomes related to prolonged labour and autism. Studies suggest the longer and more stressful the delivery, the higher the likelihood of neurodevelopmental disruptions.

Importance of Monitoring and Intervention

Healthcare providers should closely monitor signs of labour delay and fetal distress, especially when foetal growth is already a concern. Early diagnosis and responsive care can help reduce longer-term risks.

Visit providers like Autism Detect for personal consultations and further guidance on screening and support.

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Birth Complications and Low Birth Weight.

Lucia Alvarez, MSc

Author

Lucia Alvarez is a clinical psychologist with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and extensive experience providing evidence-based therapy and psychological assessment to children, adolescents, and adults. Skilled in CBT, DBT, and other therapeutic interventions, she has worked in hospital, community, and residential care settings. Her expertise includes grief counseling, anxiety management, and resilience-building, with a strong focus on creating safe, supportive environments to improve 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 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.