Can Premature Birth Increase Autism-Related Speech Delays?

PostedDecember 6, 2025

UpdatedDecember 6, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

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

The connection between premature birth and autism speech delay is an area of growing interest among researchers and clinicians. Babies born before 37 weeks often face challenges in neonatal development, including breathing, feeding, and temperature regulation, but language development is also part of the picture.

Research suggests that premature infants may be at greater risk for both autism and speech delays, though the two don’t always go hand-in-hand. Still, when combined, the effects can be more pronounced, especially in the early years of life when early communication skills are expected to emerge.

Understanding the Link Between Prematurity and Speech Delays

So how exactly do premature birth and autism speech delay overlap? Here are a few key insights:

Delays in brain maturation

Speech and language rely on specific areas of the brain that continue developing late into pregnancy. When a baby is born early, those systems may not be fully ready, raising the risk of delayed speech or early communication difficulties.

Higher likelihood of autism diagnoses

Studies show that children born prematurely are slightly more likely to be diagnosed with autism. When this occurs, speech delays may be part of the early signs.

Compounded developmental risk factors

Prematurity can also bring other risk factors, such as low birth weight or extended hospital stays, which may impact bonding and verbal interaction.

Recognising the connection between premature birth and autism speech delay helps guide more proactive support. Visit providers like Autism Detect for personal consultations and early developmental assessments.

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Delayed Speech or Language Development.

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.