Reducing the risk of autism: Tips for expectant mothers

  • Take a multivitamin. Taking 400 micrograms of folic acid daily helps prevent birth defects such as spina bifida. It’s not clear whether this will also help reduce risk of autism, but taking the vitamins can’t hurt.
  • Ask about SSRIs. Women who are taking an SSRI (or who develop depression during pregnancy) should talk with a clinician about all the risks and benefits of these drugs. Untreated depression in a mother can also affect her child’s well-being later on, so this is not a simple decision to make.
  • Practice prenatal care. Eating nutritious food, trying to avoid infections, and seeing a clinician for regular check-ups can increase the chances of giving birth to a healthy child.
Source: Harvard Health Publications

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