Written By:
BCBA, LBA
Introduction
Pregnancy is filled with hope, excitement, and, for many families, a flood of questions. One of the most common questions expectant parents in Silver Spring, Maryland ask is: “Is there anything I can do during pregnancy to prevent autism?”
It’s a deeply human question, rooted in love and a desire to do everything right for a child who hasn’t yet arrived. At Admire ABA, we work closely with families across Maryland, and we understand how overwhelming and confusing the information around autism can be, especially when you’re searching for answers during one of the most vulnerable seasons of your life.
In this post, we’ll walk you through what current science actually says about autism and pregnancy, what risk factors may be within your control, and most importantly, what to do if your child receives an autism diagnosis, because early action makes all the difference.
First, Let’s Talk About What Autism Is
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects how a person communicates, interacts socially, and processes sensory information. The CDC estimates that approximately 1 in 36 children in the United States is diagnosed with autism, a number that has grown significantly over the past two decades, reflecting both increased awareness and improved diagnostic tools.
Autism is not caused by a single factor. It is widely understood to result from a combination of genetic and environmental influences that affect early brain development, many of which begin before birth.
Can Autism Be “Prevented”?
Here’s the honest answer: There is currently no proven way to completely prevent autism. Autism has strong genetic components, and many of the factors that contribute to it are not fully within anyone’s control.
However, research does point to a number of prenatal health practices that may lower certain environmental risk factors associated with ASD. This is not about guaranteeing an outcome. It’s about giving your baby the healthiest possible start.
Think of it less as “preventing autism” and more as supporting optimal prenatal brain development.
Prenatal Factors Linked to Autism Risk: What the Research Says
1. Folic Acid Supplementation
One of the most well-supported prenatal steps is taking folic acid (Vitamin B9) before and during pregnancy. Multiple studies, including a large 2013 study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, have found that mothers who took folic acid supplements around the time of conception had a significantly lower risk of having a child with autism.
What to do: The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends 400–800 mcg of folic acid daily, starting at least one month before conception and continuing through the first trimester. Talk to your OB-GYN about the right dosage for you.
2. Managing Maternal Infections During Pregnancy
Research has consistently linked severe infections during pregnancy, particularly during the first and second trimesters, with a slightly elevated risk of autism in children. The concern centers around maternal immune activation, which may affect fetal brain development.
This includes infections like rubella, cytomegalovirus (CMV), and certain bacterial infections that trigger high fevers.
What to do:
- Stay current on recommended vaccinations (such as the MMR vaccine) before pregnancy
- Practice good hand hygiene and food safety (avoid raw or undercooked meats and unpasteurized foods)
- Seek prompt treatment for any infections during pregnancy, don’t wait or self-medicate
3. Avoiding Certain Medications During Pregnancy
Some medications taken during pregnancy have been studied for their potential association with autism risk. Valproic acid (an anticonvulsant and mood stabilizer) is the most well-documented, exposure in utero has been linked to higher rates of ASD in children.
Other medications, including certain antidepressants (SSRIs), have been studied with mixed results; current evidence does not establish a clear causal link, and untreated depression during pregnancy also carries serious risks.
What to do: Never stop or change medications on your own. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, have an open conversation with your doctor about all medications you take. Every situation is different, and your provider can help you weigh risks and benefits.
4. Limiting Exposure to Environmental Toxins
Emerging research has explored whether exposure to air pollution, pesticides, and heavy metals during pregnancy may contribute to autism risk. While this area of science is still developing, some studies have found associations between prenatal exposure to traffic-related air pollution and elevated ASD risk.
Living in the greater Washington, D.C. metro area, including Silver Spring, means navigating an urban environment. While you can’t eliminate all exposure, you can take common-sense steps.
What to do:
- Avoid smoking and secondhand smoke entirely during pregnancy
- Be mindful of pesticide use at home; opt for safer alternatives
- Discuss any workplace chemical exposures with your doctor
- Use air purifiers indoors if you live near high-traffic areas
5. Prenatal Care and Managing Chronic Conditions
Gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, and maternal obesity have all been studied as potential risk factors for ASD. This doesn’t mean every parent who experiences these conditions will have a child with autism, but managing your overall health during pregnancy matters.
What to do:
- Attend all prenatal appointments
- Follow guidance from your healthcare provider on nutrition, weight management, and blood sugar monitoring
- Treat any chronic conditions proactively before and during pregnancy
6. Spacing Between Pregnancies
Studies have found that pregnancies spaced less than 12 months apart may be associated with a slightly higher risk of autism in subsequent children. This is thought to be linked to nutritional depletion in the mother (particularly folate stores) and increased stress on the body.
What to do: Discuss family planning and pregnancy spacing with your OB-GYN, particularly if you are planning more than one child.
Genetic Factors: What You Cannot Control
It’s equally important to acknowledge what cannot be changed: genetics play a significant role in autism. Research suggests that autism is highly heritable, with studies estimating heritability rates between 60–90%.
If you have a child with autism, have a close family member on the spectrum, or have been told you carry certain genetic variants, your subsequent children may have an elevated risk of ASD. This is not anyone’s fault, and it is not something prenatal vitamins or lifestyle changes can fully override.
What it does mean is that families with a known genetic history should be especially prepared to monitor for early developmental signs and seek evaluation as early as possible.
The Most Powerful Step You Can Take: Early Identification and Intervention
While complete prevention may not be possible, early identification and early intervention are among the most powerful tools available, and this is where families in Silver Spring can take meaningful, life-changing action.
Research is overwhelmingly clear: children who begin early intervention and ABA therapy services before age 3 show significantly better outcomes in communication, social skills, adaptive behavior, and school readiness. The earlier a child receives support, the greater the brain’s neuroplasticity, its ability to form and strengthen new connections.
At Admire ABA, we’ve seen this firsthand. In our work with families across Maryland, children who began early intervention therapy between 18 and 36 months of age made remarkable developmental strides, gains that have had lasting effects on their ability to communicate, connect with peers, and participate in daily life. Parents frequently tell us that they wish they had started even sooner.
Know the Early Signs of Autism
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends autism screening at 18 months and 24 months. But parents are often the first to notice something. Watch for these signs in your child:
- Not responding to their name by 12 months
- Not pointing to objects to show interest by 14 months
- Not making eye contact or smiling socially
- Loss of previously acquired language or social skills at any age
- Repetitive movements (hand-flapping, rocking) that are frequent and interfere with daily activities
- Significant difficulty with transitions or changes in routine
- Limited or no pretend play by 18 months
If you notice any of these signs in your child, don’t wait for your next scheduled well-child visit, call your pediatrician now and ask for a developmental screening or referral to a specialist.
Admire ABA Services for Silver Spring Families
If your child has been diagnosed with autism, or if you’re concerned about their development and want answers, Admire ABA is here to help. We offer a full continuum of care designed to meet your family where you are.
In-Home ABA Therapy
Our board-certified behavior analysts (BCBAs) and trained therapists bring high-quality ABA therapy directly to your home, making it easier to integrate learning into real-life routines.
Parent Training
You are your child’s most important teacher. Our Parent Training program equips you with the strategies and confidence to support your child’s growth every hour of every day, not just during therapy sessions.
Daycare-Based ABA
For children attending daycare, our therapists work directly in that setting, embedding therapy into the child’s natural environment and helping staff learn supportive strategies.
Weekend ABA
We understand that life doesn’t stop on weekdays. Our Weekend ABA services ensure that therapy remains consistent even for busy families.
Early Intervention ABA Therapy
Designed for children ages 18 months to 5 years, our Early Intervention program targets communication, social skills, self-care, and school readiness at the most critical window of brain development.
Diagnostic Services
Not sure if your child needs an evaluation? Admire ABA offers diagnostic services to help families in Silver Spring and throughout Maryland get clarity and a clear path forward.
Conclusion
Silver Spring is a vibrant, diverse community, and raising a child with autism here means you have access to a wide range of support networks, schools, and services. Montgomery County Public Schools, advocacy organizations, and early intervention programs are valuable partners in your child’s journey.
But navigating all of that takes time, and you shouldn’t have to do it alone. Whether your child has just received a diagnosis, you’re still seeking answers, or you’re looking to maximize the progress of a child already in therapy.
Admire ABA as your partner in this journey. You can’t go back, but you can start right now. If you’re in Silver Spring, Maryland, and you’re concerned about your child’s development, don’t wait. Our team of compassionate, highly trained professionals is ready to listen, evaluate, and build an ABA therapy program in MD tailored to your child and family.
Learn more about our services. Contact us today!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can taking folic acid during pregnancy reduce the risk of autism?
Research suggests that folic acid supplementation around the time of conception and during early pregnancy may be associated with a reduced risk of autism. A landmark study published in JAMA found that mothers who took folic acid had significantly lower rates of having children with ASD. However, folic acid is not a guaranteed preventive measure. Autism has complex genetic and environmental roots. Most healthcare providers recommend 400–800 mcg of folic acid daily starting before conception and continuing through the first trimester.
What are the earliest signs of autism in babies and toddlers?
Early signs of autism can appear as young as 6–12 months and may include limited eye contact, not responding to their name by 12 months, lack of pointing or gesturing by 14 months, no babbling by 12 months, and regression in language or social skills at any age. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends formal autism screening at 18 and 24 months. If you notice any developmental concerns, speak with your pediatrician promptly. Early intervention significantly improves outcomes.
What should I do if my child in Silver Spring, MD, is diagnosed with autism?
If your child receives an autism diagnosis in Silver Spring, the first step is to connect with a qualified ABA therapy provider as quickly as possible. Research consistently shows that early intervention, ideally beginning before age 3, leads to significantly better outcomes. Admire ABA offers a full range of services in Silver Spring, including Early Intervention ABA therapy, In-Home ABA, Parent Training, Diagnostic Services, and Weekend ABA, to help your child build communication, social, and adaptive living skills. Contact Admire ABA to schedule a consultation and get started on a personalized treatment plan.
SOURCES:
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/cmv/symptoms-causes/syc-20355358
- https://www.cdc.gov/autism/signs-symptoms/index.html
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Obstetrics_and_gynaecology
- https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/324292
- https://www.sgu.edu/school-of-medicine/blog/what-is-an-ob-gyn/
