TOKYO: New research from Japan suggests that children born to mothers experiencing depression may face a higher risk of developing autism, highlighting the critical role of maternal mental health in early childhood development.
The study analyzed data from over 23,000 mothers and their children, finding a clear association between maternal depression and an increased likelihood of autism-like symptoms in children.
To support these findings, researchers also conducted biological experiments on mice, which confirmed a link between maternal stress and developmental changes associated with autism.
Gender Differences in Autism Risk
The study revealed notable gender differences. While boys generally displayed more autism-like traits regardless of maternal mental health, the effects of maternal depression were particularly pronounced in girls.
Girls exposed to maternal depression were more likely to be born with low birth weight and exhibited weaker emotional bonding with their mothers. Overall, maternal depression appeared to have a stronger developmental impact on girls, even though boys showed higher levels of autism-like traits overall.
Role of Stress Hormones
Researchers explained that maternal stress can disrupt levels of oxytocin, a hormone crucial for bonding and social behaviour. These disruptions may provide a biological explanation for the link between maternal depression and increased autism risk.
Importance of Early Screening
The study emphasises the importance of screening mothers for mental health issues both during pregnancy and after childbirth. Early identification and intervention could play a key role in reducing developmental risks for children.
In a related study involving over 140,000 pregnant women, the use of antidepressants during the second and third trimesters was associated with nearly double the risk of autism in children.
These findings have renewed discussions about autism diagnosis, particularly the underdiagnosis of autism in girls, and underscore the need for careful monitoring of mental health treatments during pregnancy.
