A report published by the Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry revealed that babies born via caesarean section are at higher risk of developing autism compared to those born naturally.

The study conducted in Sweden included over 20,000 pairs of siblings with at least one child diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

The study

The study reviewed the medical records of 13,411 individuals with an ASD and compared them to their siblings who did not have the condition.

The study identified that siblings who were born via caesarean section were 33% more likely to develop an ASD, especially those born prematurely.

Furthermore, children born vaginally with induced labor were also at an increased risk.

The study showed that children delivered through induced labor were 16% more likely to develop autism compared to children born naturally, without the need for labor induction.

Possible causations of ASD in children born via caesarean section

Experts believe that there are several factors that may be responsible for the increased prevalence of autism in children born via caesarean section.

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Newborns delivered by c-section miss out on the natural bacteria that the baby would have received if they had passed through the birth canal, which is thought to help develop the child’s immune system and digestive tract. This disruption in the infant’s microbiome is believed to increase their risk of developing autism as well as other health complications.

Because a baby delivered via c-section does not experience the squeezing of the birth canal, they are also at higher risk of having fluid in their lungs.

This can cause respiratory distress syndrome, which can lead to a decreased oxygen supply to the brain. Decreased oxygen supply can cause damage in the brain and affect its function, which may lead to an ASD diagnosis.

Conclusion

While the researchers stated that the increased risk of autism with c-section delivery does not necessarily indicate a cause-and-effect relationship, it is an important point of discussion for expectant parents and medical professionals during the birthing process. Parents at risk of having a child with autism may want to discuss with their doctor the options of vaginal birth versus c-section and avoid medically unnecessary interventions.

This study raises the question of how the medical system can improve maternity care to reduce the risk of c-sections and improve the health of both mother and child.

It is important for medical professionals to highlight the benefits of natural delivery and the potential risks associated with medically unnecessary c-sections and induced labor.