Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental disorder that affects a child’s communication, behavior and social interaction. The exact cause of ASD remains unknown, but researchers believe that genetic and environmental factors play a role.
The Importance of Prenatal Care
Autism has been tied to events during pregnancy. The mother should have regular checkups with her doctor for prenatal care for autism prevention. Doctors can monitor any potential risks and help ensure a healthy pregnancy.
Taking prenatal vitamins has been found to reduce the risk of autism. Studies have shown that expectant mothers who regularly take prenatal vitamins are less likely to have a child diagnosed with autism, even if there are other high-risk factors. Other studies have shown that prenatal vitamin D deficiency can be linked to autism in children.
Proper nutrition is also essential during pregnancy for autism prevention. Obesity, diabetes and stress are all risk factors associated with autism. Studies have shown that those who are obese or overweight before pregnancy are 36% more likely to have a child diagnosed with ASD. Therefore, maintaining proper health is important during pregnancy.
Women may also want to avoid exposure to harmful substances while pregnant. These substances can include tobacco, alcohol and drugs. Any of these substances can negatively affect the development of the baby and can increase the risk of autism. In addition, there is a potential link between autism and taking Tylenol when pregnant. Pregnant women should avoid ingesting any type of substance without consulting a doctor.
Infant Care and Autism Prevention
After the baby is born, there are several things that parents can do to reduce the risks associated with ASD. For example, breastfeeding is thought to promote healthy development in the baby, and some studies suggest breastfeeding may also protect against ASD in the child.
There has been debate on whether childhood vaccinations can cause autism, but this has not been proven in either direction at this time. It is important to note that receiving the recommended vaccinations can protect the child from harmful diseases. Vaccinations also help contribute to a healthy immune system. All of this can help reduce the risk of autism.
It is important for parents to ensure their child has infant care and regular visits with their doctor. Doctors will provide early screening for autism, which can assist in early intervention. The child’s doctor can also help monitor developmental milestones and identify potential concerns early. The sooner autism is diagnosed, the better off the parent and child will be.
Parental Support and Education
Parental support and education are important for dealing with the unique situations faced by families of children with ASD. Parenting classes and participating in support groups can help parents learn effective strategies for raising a child with special needs.
Classes can give parents practical strategies for building healthy relationships. They will also help manage difficult moments with the child. Finally, classes can help with strategies for preventing problems from developing.
It is important for both the parent and the child to manage stress in their lives. Stress can be problematic for the child’s development and functioning. The child will be able to sense when the parent is stressed.
We all have stress in our lives. Learning how to manage that stress through education will help the parent as well as the child’s development.
As a parent of a child with ASD, it is important to build a strong support network. The parent should seek a community of other families in similar situations, where the parent can go to ask questions or just know that someone else understands. It is also important for parents to surround themselves with friends and family members who can bond with the child and help relieve some of the burdens that parents experience each day.
If you have a child diagnosed with ASD and you believe substances ingested during pregnancy may have contributed to the diagnosis, it is important to find out your legal options. If you think ingesting Tylenol while pregnant could have caused your child to develop autism, you need to find out what may be available to you. We are here to help. Contact us today.