Can a mother’s blood sugar affect her child’s brain development?
Yes, and this is something that more parents and healthcare workers must be made aware of. Recent studies suggest a correlation between diabetes in pregnancy and an increased risk for an offspring to develop Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
With rising rates of autism, understanding the link between maternal health and childhood development has become more relevant than ever. Whether you are an expecting mother or a concerned parent, this blog will provide all you need to know in simple terms, while pointing out ways physiotherapy support may help in case it is needed early on.
What is Maternal Diabetes?
Maternal diabetes means high blood sugar levels occurring during a pregnancy. Such high blood sugar levels may be either due to:
Gestational Diabetes (developed during pregnancy)
Type 1 or Type 2 Diabetes (existing before pregnancy)
High glucose levels, if not well controlled, can adversely affect the growth, brain development, and overall health of the baby.
How Does Maternal Diabetes Relate to Autism?
Research has found that:
☑️Infants born to mothers with poorly managed diabetes face much greater risk of developing neurodevelopmental disorders, including autism.
☑️High blood sugar may alter early development of the brain, particularly in the early first trimester.
☑️Insulin resistance, also an inflammatory condition affecting the pregnant mother, could lead to altered neural connectivity in the baby’s brain.
As mentioned earlier in an article in the JAMA Pediatrics, these PUTS children born to mothers suffering from either Type 2 or gestational diabetes are at an increased risk of developing autism, making early diagnosis during pregnancy even worse.
What are the Early Signs of Autism in a Baby?
There are clear signs of autism in toddlers and the earlier the detection, the better. Watch out for:
🔷 Delayed speech and language skills
🔷 Limited eye contact and inability to respond to their name
🔷 Repetitive movements (hand flapping, rocking)
🔷 Difficulty in social activity
🔷 Sensory sensitivity
If you found any of these behaviors, then the earlier you get in a few therapies, the better the results are.
Maternal diabetes during pregnancy may increase the risk of autism spectrum disorders in children, emphasizing the importance of prenatal care.
How Can Physiotherapy Benefit a Child at Risk?
At Physio Resource (Best Rehabilitation Center in Lahore), our pediatric therapists work closely with children with identified risks and those just starting to show developmental delay signs, including autism diagnoses. We provide:
🔷Early motor skill development
🔷Sensory integration therapy
🔷Improvement in balance, coordination, and muscle tone
🔷Education/Support for Parents
However, physiotherapy in early childhood could help children achieve age-appropriate milestones while increasing their independence and quality of life.
It has also reduced the time needed for physical therapy.
It Is Possible by a Mother to Decrease This Risk?
However, if the mother is expecting or hoping to conceive, here are some tips:
✅ Control blood glucose levels
✅ Eat a healthy, balanced diet
✅ Regular exercise (as advised by your doctor)
✅ Continue attending regular prenatal checkups
✅ Discuss family history of autism or diabetes with your healthcare provider
Physio Resource: Offering You and Your Child Support Every Step of the Way
Physio Resource (Best pediatric Rehabilitation Center in Lahore) believes that being aware and intervening early is of utmost importance and provides the best autism treatment in Lahore. Our team of trained pediatric physiotherapists works with children having autism, developmental delay, or sensory problems using gentle and specialized therapy. We also support pregnant women with physiotherapy that is safe during pregnancy and promotes excellent health.
Book a Consultation Today!
Physio Resource is here for you: be it a mother with diabetes or a parent concerned about his child’s development. Get in touch with them for early screening, expert guidance, and professional therapy to ensure your child lives a long and happy life.
