Do Prenatal Vitamins Reduce the Risk of Autism?

Many mothers go to great lengths to ensure that their child is not at risk of autism. Some avoid having their children vaccinated, even though the theory that there was a link between autism and childhood vaccinations has recently been disproven. Due to new research, scientists may be one step closer to determining the cause of autism, however. Here's what all women who are planning to become pregnant should know about the link between prenatal vitamins and autism.

The Link Between Prenatal Vitamins and Autism

A recent study which was funded by the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences found a link between prenatal vitamin usage and autism. Researchers found that the risk of autism was 60% lower among women who took prenatal vitamins three months prior to conception and during the first month of pregnancy, according to WebMD. Taking prenatal vitamins after the first month did not show any change in the risk of autism, however.

Why May Prenatal Vitamins Reduce the Risk of Autism?

Prenatal vitamins contain higher levels of folic acid, iron, and B vitamins than what are found in multivitamins. Most people also do not consume these vitamins through diet alone. Folic acid, iron, and B vitamins have been known to play a critical role in neurodevelopment. The researchers of this study believe that these nutrients offer protection from autism during early fetal brain development, according to the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences.

Are the Results of This Study Believable?

As of right now, medical experts are critical of this study because there were only 700 participating families. Follow-up studies need to be done to further assess the role that prenatal vitamins play in the development of autism. That said, the results of this study are promising, as they may lead scientists to crack the cause of autism.

It cannot hurt to begin taking your prenatal vitamins early. Women who are planning to become pregnant should think about taking prenatal vitamins for at least three months before they try to conceive. If you're at risk of becoming pregnant accidentally, it also cannot hurt to talk to your doctor about taking prenatal vitamins. Once you suspect that you could be pregnant, it's ideal to begin taking prenatal vitamins right away. If the findings of this study are accurate, starting prenatal vitamins early on may be an essential key to reducing the risk of autism.

Disclaimer: This article is intended for educational purposes only. If you are concerned about your health, be sure to seek medical attention from a licensed health care professional.

Sources:

National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences
WebMD