How to Prevent Autism While Pregnant

The cause of autism has not been clearly elucidated; however, genes are believed to make the greatest contribution to whether a child is born with autism or not. It is, though rare, also believed that if the mother was exposed to some specific chemicals when she was pregnant, the baby is likely to be born with birth defects. Some scientists, on the other hand, say that autism can be the consequence of both genetic factors and environmental factors.

Unfortunately, doctors can hardly discover whether your baby will have autism during you are pregnant. Even though autism cannot totally be prevented, there still exist ways that you can try to lower the risk.

Live Healthy

Living healthy plays a very important role in lower the risk of autism. First of all, you should have your health checked regularly to rule out your and your baby’s health risks. Make sure you serve yourself with healthy, well-balanced meals. You can ask your obstetrician for advice to optimize nutrition and take helpful prenatal vitamins. You ought to particularly avoid using drugs during pregnancy. Remember to ask your doctor carefully before taking any drugs. Alcoholic beverage, moreover, is the thing that every pregnant woman must stay away. Furthermore, in case you are diagnosed with some health conditions such as celiac disease or PKU, go strictly along with your doctor’s advice to keep them under control. Plus, don’t forget to give yourself a break, as well.

Avoid Exposure to Air Pollution

There is a link between exposure to air pollution during pregnancy and autism risks. Researchers at Harvard School of Public Health discovered that children whose mother is exposed to high levels of pollution face double the risk, especially in the third trimester.  The more air pollution to which the mother is exposed, the more significant the risk can outweigh.

There are a lot of ways you can try to shield yourself from air pollution. When doing exercise, you should avoid peak hours and stay away from congested areas. If you notice the pollution levels being so high, do exercise indoors.

Stay Away From Toxic Chemicals

Exposure to specific chemicals during pregnancy, too, increases the risk of autism spectrum disorders in your baby. A study has recently discovered that there is a connection between autism and environmental exposures, particularly some metals, pesticides, insecticides, and traffic-related pollutants. Finding out the exact chemicals which you should avoid may be bewildering, so you are advised to consult your doctor to know what is good for you and your baby, and what is not. You should cut the consumption of canned foods, avoid personal products consisting of ‘fragrance’, limit the use of water bottles that are made of aluminum or plastic.

Hello Health Group does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.