Autism is a permanent neurological developmental disorder characterised by cognitive deficits, as well as impaired communicative and social development. Having said that, the word “spectrum” includes social, and communication skills and repetitive behaviour.
Some such varied autism symptoms are associated with pregnancy. Parental exposure to adverse environmental factors, non-prescribed drugs, obesity, gestational diabetes, and insufficient pregnancy diet are some of the factors that have been linked to an increased likelihood of autism. Therefore, expectant parents need to take necessary steps to prevent autism during pregnancy, such as maintaining a healthy lifestyle and avoiding exposure to harmful substances.
Here’s a list curated for you:
Maintaining a Healthy Lifestyle
Plan a healthy diet, be active, be hydrated, and get enough rest during pregnancy to reduce the symptoms of Autism.
Intake of Folate or Folic Acid
Folic acid inclusion in the early stages of pregnancy can help in boosting the foetal brain as well as the spine. According to the healthcare practitioner, intake of 600 and 800 mcg can prevent birth defects in babies
Staying Active
Your weight should not be more than BMI ≥30 kg/m2. If, by chance, your weight is more than what has been mentioned, the chances of autism in the developing baby is high. So, including low-impact activities like swimming, brisk walking, and prenatal yoga can keep weight in control.
Stay Hydrated
Dehydration during pregnancy can give rise to serious problems like less breast milk production and volume of amniotic fluid. Preterm labour is also a part of feeling dehydrated. So, drink at least 6 to 8 glasses of water daily. Including smoothies, juices, and broths can do a lot.
Reduce Maternal Stress
Feeling stressed out and depressed is a part of your pregnancy. It’s not unnatural to feel worried and anxious about your slowly developing little one inside you. The stress hormones can pass down from the placenta to the developing baby. The risks of autism in the foetus are also high. To deal with it you need to be active, practice yoga and meditation, join support groups and attend counselling sessions.
Be Imunised
Since your immune response is closely related to the autism symptoms of the baby-to-be, getting immunised, or vaccinated can help. Vaccines for rubella, measles, and mumps are associated with the reduction of the signs of Autism.
Stay Away From Pollution
Air pollution is linked with the signs of autism. So, passive smokers, or smelling alcohol. It’s always better to stay away from pollution.
Getting regularly checked by the healthcare provider in the first trimester and going through chorionic villi sampling (CVS) or amniocentesis.
