COVID-19 in pregnancy linked to higher autism, developmental risks
Source: www.ucsf.edu Key Points: Exposed children had a 29% higher risk of autism, speech delays, and motor disorders. Male children and third-trimester exposure faced the highest risk. Early screening and monitoring can help detect developmental issues. A new study by researchers at Mass General Brigham, published on Oct. 30, 2025, indicates that COVID-19 pregnancy risk may increase the likelihood of neurodevelopmental disorders in children by age three. The study, appearing in Obstetrics & Gynecology, suggests that exposure to the virus in utero could subtly alter fetal brain development. The research analyzed 18,124 live births from March 2020 to May 2021, comparing developmental outcomes in children born to mothers who tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 during pregnancy with those who did not. Among 861 exposed children, 16.3% were diagnosed with a neurodevelopmental condition by age three. In contrast, 9.7% of 17,263 unexposed children received similar diagnoses. After adjusting f...