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Do maternal fever and illness as environmental factors during labour influence autism? 

Posted
Updated
ByMy Patient Advice
Author: Lucia Alvarez, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Yes, there is increasing evidence that maternal fever during labour & autism may be connected. Maternal fever and illness during labour are considered possible environmental factors that could influence a baby’s neurological development and increase the risk of autism effects, especially when occurring during critical periods of birth. 

Fevers and infections can activate the maternal immune system, which in turn may trigger inflammation that affects the baby’s developing brain, even during labour. This immune activation may alter brain signalling, hormone regulation or gene expression in ways that contribute to neurodevelopmental differences. 

Speak to an Autism clinician near you

How Fever and Illness During Labour Might Affect Autism Risk 

Here are two ways maternal fever and illness during labour could be linked to autism effects: 

Inflammatory responses in the womb 

Fever is often a sign of infection, and the accompanying immune response can lead to elevated levels of inflammatory markers. These can cross the placenta and potentially interfere with how brain cells develop and connect. 

Stress-related hormonal changes 

Labour-related illnesses may affect hormone levels and stress responses, which could alter the birth environment. These changes might subtly influence how brain circuits involved in social and sensory processing develop. 

The potential link between maternal fever during labour & autism underscores the importance of managing maternal health and infections promptly during delivery. 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 Environmental Factors. 

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. 

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