You need to know several things if you’re having an autistic baby or ASD, as it’s known. It’s a complex developmental disability that affects social skills like playing, learning, and communicating. Autism ranges from mild to severe, and as per an estimation, autism affects 1 in 54 children today. ASD occurs in all racial and socioeconomic groups, and it’s four times more common among boys than girls.
A belief is common amongst people that consuming processed foods during pregnancy may be linked to a higher risk of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in children. However, autism is a lifelong diagnosis, and there is no known cure. As a spectrum disorder, there are varying degrees of autism and levels of disability. Some children with milder symptoms will learn how to manage the disorder more effectively than others.
Can You Tell If The Baby Has Autism During Pregnancy?
A routine prenatal ultrasound can identify early signs of autism in the second trimester, but the chances of having a baby with autism is somewhere near to 5%, i.e., 1 out of 20 children is at a risk to be born with autism.
What Causes Autism?
There are several factors that cause autism. The most familiar amongst them are:
- A close family member who’s autistic.
- Certain genetic mutations.
- Fragile X syndrome and other genetic disorders.
- Being born to older parents.
- Low birth weight.
- Metabolic imbalances.
- Exposure to heavy metals and environmental toxins.
- Maternal history of any viral infections.
How Can You Prevent Autism In Babies?
While you can’t prevent having a child with an autistic disorder, you can increase your odds of having a healthy baby by making certain lifestyle changes.
When planning your family, ensure that you live a healthy lifestyle and eat well-balanced meals. You’ll need to have regular check-ups and be certain to exercise. Likewise, make sure you have good prenatal care and take all recommended vitamins and supplements.
Many studies have found a link between preterm birth and autism, and other developmental disorders. Around 7% of children born preterm have autism, compared with 1%–2% of children in the general population, and the often related risk of ASD is low birth weight.
As your child gets older, the clinical intervention will probably include speech therapy, occupational therapy, and mental health therapy to make sure the symptoms are more manageable, which will enhance life as much as possible for everyone.
Autism Signs
Most autism signs are noticeable by the time the kid turns 12 months of age. These include:
- Little or no physical movements (such as crawling)
- Absence of speech
- Incapable of using gestures such as waving or shaking their head
- Unable to point toward objects or pictures
- Inability to stand still even when supported
Same Journey But A Different Goal
As a parent, your child is very special despite being autistic, and you need to know that your child’s autism is a part of who they are. It’s very important to encourage your child in each milestone. Besides everything else that you will need to consider, your child will be accepted and supported for who they are, and just as any other child, congratulate them on all milestones that they achieve.
Signs To Look For In Autism
Be aware of your child’s sensory differences. An autistic baby processes things differently, and you have to learn to accept that it’s their way of dealing with their development. Clinical therapies will help, and you and your child will adapt to the given learning pattern and aim for developmental goals.
Try To Limit Anxiety
Offer structure to daily life, and don’t push your child too far outside their comfort zone. They may not wish to be in crowded places or be rushed into things as they get older. Take things steadily, and never try to hurry them.
Secrets To Raising A Happy Autistic Baby
No matter how small their achievements are, cheer your baby whenever possible.
Watching your baby grow is an unforgettable experience. You’ll identify the early signs of autism in babies, and a prompt diagnosis will manage the condition. Celebrate your child’s achievements and never worry about what others may be thinking.
Handy Tips
- Find parents who understand and support you
- Enjoy the strong bond you’ll forge with your child
- Trust your instincts, and don’t worry about what others may think
- Your autistic child may bring out the very best in your family
- Remember to live your life and take care of yourself too!