The Association Between Prenatal Anxiety and Depression and Autism Spectrum Disorder With Gastrointestinal Symptoms in Children: Case-Control Study
Year: 2026
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: Background: Studies have indicated that maternal anxiety and depression during pregnancy can contribute to neurodevelopmental disorders and gut flora dysbiosis in children. However, it is unclear whether these factors increase the risk of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) with gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms in children. Objective: This study aimed to analyze the relationship between maternal anxiety and depression during pregnancy and ASD with GI symptoms. Methods: A total of 470 children with ASD and 486 children with typical development were enrolled in the study. The caregivers of all enrolled children completed questionnaires, including information on maternal mental health and GI symptoms. Results: <.001). Children whose mothers experienced anxiety or depression during pregnancy had substantially higher risk of developing ASD than those whose mothers did not experience these conditions (unadjusted odds ratio [OR] 4.274, 95% CI 2.799-6.526; adjusted OR 3.897, 95% CI 2.481-6.119). For children with ASD, those whose mothers had prenatal anxiety or depression had a significantly higher risk of GI symptoms than those whose mothers did not have these conditions (unadjusted OR 1.883, 95% CI 1.209-2.934; adjusted OR 1.943, 95% CI 1.236-3.054). Conclusions: Mothers who experience anxiety or depression during pregnancy may have a higher likelihood of their children developing ASD with GI symptoms.
Source: JMIR Pediatrics and Parenting
DOI: 10.2196/90446
Language: English
Subfield: Cognitive Neuroscience
Field: Neuroscience
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $1,605
Award: G2954902575
OpenAlex ID: W7224085604