Prenatal exposure and risk of medication in autism spectrum disorder.

Abstract

Objective: The research aims to investigate correlations between prenatal medication exposure and ASD risk. Study Design: Cross-Sectional Observational Study. Setting: Department of Speech Language Pathology, The University of Lahore. Period: 22^nd April 2024 22^nd October 2024. Methods: Involving 45 mothers of autistic children. The research spanned 12 months, employing a purposive sampling technique and a self-designed questionnaire. Data analysis utilized SPSS software, focusing on demographic characteristics and questionnaire responses. Results: Findings reveal a variety of factors potentially associated with ASD, including abrupt medication changes (26.7%), pre-clampsia (35.6%), maternal age (60% within 25-30 age group), neurological conditions (37.8%), cousin marriages (37.8%), and complications during delivery (22.2%). The study emphasizes the complexity of ASD and highlights potential risk factors. Conclusion: The research concludes that while no specific prenatal factor is implicated in ASD etiology, certain associations suggest that exposure to pregnancy complications may increase the risk. The study underscores the need for a nuanced understanding of ASD and early intervention strategies.