Maternal Hypothyroidism and Autism Spectrum Disorder Connection?

Is a pregnant mother with hypothyroidism more likely to have a child with an autism spectrum disorder? Based on a study in the Journal of Pediatric Research published January 3, 2018, it would appear the answer is yes! The good news is that treatment of hypothyroidism during pregnancy may reduce the risk of ASD significantly. Specifically, women with a diagnosis of hypothyroidism during pregnancy with normal thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) and free thyroxine (fT4) levels were not associated with an increased risk of autism spectrum disorder. Additional factors demonstrate there is a higher association of ASD in children who are Hispanics or mixed-race than whites. The take away from this study is if you are pregnant speak with your doctor regarding your thyroid levels to make certain they are normal and remain normal during the pregnancy. We have many inquiries from Moms where we undertake an evaluation and scrutinize the prenatal records to determine if appropriate medications were administered to prevent cognitive and developmental delays in their children with catastrophic consequences. Please contact the Jacob Fuchsberg Law Firm, LLP if you have a child that has been injured at birth and let us investigate. We can help when the unimaginable happens… 212-869-3500.

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