Do maternal stress and anxiety operate as environmental factors that influence autism onset?

PostedNovember 26, 2025

UpdatedNovember 26, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

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

Yes, research increasingly supports the idea that maternal stress, anxiety & autism are connected, with stress and anxiety during pregnancy acting as environmental influences that may affect autism onset in children. While these psychological factors do not directly cause autism, they may contribute to neurodevelopmental vulnerability, particularly in genetically predisposed infants.

The prenatal period is a sensitive time for brain development. When a pregnant individual experiences prolonged stress or anxiety, elevated cortisol levels and inflammatory responses can cross the placenta and influence foetal brain formation.

How Maternal Stress and Anxiety May Influence Autism Onset

Here are two ways maternal stress and anxiety could affect autism onset:

Changes in hormonal and immune signalling

High stress levels during pregnancy can lead to increased cortisol and inflammatory markers, which may alter the developmental environment. These hormonal shifts can affect neural circuits involved in social and emotional processing.

Interaction with foetal genetic sensitivity

In children already carrying genetic susceptibility to autism, maternal stress may act as a triggering environmental factor. This gene–environment interaction is a key area of interest in autism research.

Understanding the connection between maternal stress, anxiety & autism can help promote mental health support during pregnancy as part of broader early intervention efforts. 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.