Let’s get something clear right away: you can’t completely prevent autism. Autism is shaped by a mix of genes and things in your environment. There’s no sure way to prevent it completely. But if you’re wondering how to prevent autism, or how to avoid autism in babies, there are a few science-backed steps that might help lower the risk.
And these aren’t just guesses. One study from the journal Epidemiology found that women who took prenatal vitamins with folic acid around conception had a 40% lower chance of having a child with autism. That’s not a cure, but it shows that what you do early on can make a difference.
If you already have one child on the spectrum, it’s normal to be concerned and to ask, how to avoid autism in a second child. This guide walks you through practical, realistic ways to support healthy development from the very beginning.
1. Take Folic Acid, Start Before You’re Pregnant
Folic acid is one of the most researched supplements when it comes to brain development. It helps build the neural tube super early in pregnancy, often before you even know you’re expecting. Taking 400 to 800 mcg daily can help reduce the risk of neural tube defects and may also play a role in lowering autism risk.
Start taking it at least a month before you start trying for a baby. If you’re already pregnant and haven’t started yet, no worries, just begin now and keep going through your first trimester.
2. Manage Your Health Conditions
Conditions like diabetes, obesity, and thyroid problems have been linked with a slightly higher risk of autism. That doesn’t mean having these conditions causes autism, but it’s smart to keep them in check before and during pregnancy.
This is an important part of how to avoid autism in babies, keeping your own body in the best shape possible. Seeing your doctor regularly and sticking to your treatment plan helps keep things safer for your baby as they grow.
3. Cut Back on Chemical Exposure
Some chemicals in everyday life can interfere with fetal brain development. While you can’t avoid all toxins, you can make small changes that add up.
- Go for organic produce when you can to cut down on pesticide exposure.
- Swap plastic containers for glass or stainless steel to play it safer.
- Skip harsh cleaners and go with non-toxic, fragrance-free options.
- Skip any major remodeling while you’re pregnant, especially in older homes that might have lead paint.
It matters most during the first trimester when your baby’s brain is growing fast.
4. Stay Current on Vaccines
Getting sick during pregnancy isn’t just uncomfortable; it can affect your baby. Viral infections like rubella, the flu, or even high fevers have been linked to increased autism risk in some studies.
The good news? Many of these infections are preventable. Make sure you’re up to date on your vaccinations, especially MMR and the flu shot. And no, vaccines don’t cause autism, that myth has been debunked over and over. Actually, skipping some vaccines while pregnant can end up putting your baby at risk.
If you’re searching for ways on how to prevent autism, protecting yourself from infection is one smart place to start.
5. Reduce Stress and Find Support
High, long-lasting stress during pregnancy can impact your baby’s brain development. The stress hormone cortisol crosses the placenta and affects nervous system growth.
You can’t avoid stress completely, but managing it is key. Prioritize sleep, set limits on what you can handle, and talk to someone you trust. Gentle exercise, meditation, or even daily walks help too.
If you’re worried about how to avoid autism in a second child, mental health care is just as important as physical health.
6. Space Out Your Pregnancies
Research shows that pregnancies less than 18 months apart have a higher chance of developmental issues, including autism.
Your body needs time to recover nutrients like folate and iron. Waiting at least a year and a half before trying for another baby is one way to lower risk, especially if you’re focused on how to avoid autism in second child.
7. Get Enough Vitamin D
Vitamin D is involved in brain development, and low levels during pregnancy have been linked to a higher chance of autism. Many people are low in vitamin D without knowing it, especially in colder climates or during winter months.
Ask your doctor to check your levels. If you’re low, a supplement can help, usually 600 to 2,000 IU per day, depending on what your body needs. Safe sun exposure and fortified foods are also good ways to bump up your levels naturally.
8. Choose Safe Fish, Avoid High-Mercury Ones
Fish is great for your baby’s brain, omega-3s are essential for development. But not all fish are safe. High-mercury fish like swordfish, tilefish, king mackerel, and shark should be avoided during pregnancy.
Instead, go for low-mercury options like salmon, sardines, cod, and canned light tuna (in moderation). Two to three servings a week is generally safe and healthy.
When it comes to preventing autism, smart dietary choices won’t guarantee it, but they do help support healthy brain development.
9. Be Careful with Certain Medications
Some medications, particularly if taken in the first trimester, have been linked to a higher autism risk. Valproic acid, used for epilepsy and bipolar disorder, is one example. Don’t stop any meds on your own, always check with your doctor. If you’re planning to get pregnant, talk to your healthcare provider about safer alternatives that might have lower risks.
If you’re already pregnant and taking medications, your doctor can help you weigh the benefits and risks and make adjustments if needed.
10. Avoid Alcohol and Recreational Drugs
No amount of alcohol is safe during pregnancy. Alcohol and drug use can interfere with fetal brain development and are linked with developmental delays, which sometimes overlap with autism-like symptoms.
If you’re using substances and planning to conceive, reach out to a healthcare provider for support in quitting safely.
11. Minimize Exposure to Air Pollution
Research shows that breathing in air pollution while pregnant may raise the chance of autism. Pollutants like fine particulate matter from traffic and industry may affect the fetal brain during critical stages.
Use air purifiers at home, avoid heavy traffic areas, and check local air quality reports to reduce exposure where you can.
For parents wondering how to avoid autism in babies, this is a practical but often overlooked step.
12. Encourage Healthy Development After Birth
Even after your baby is born, your choices still matter. You may not be able to change genetics, but the environment you create plays a big role.
- Breastfeed if you can; it’s linked to lower rates of developmental delays
- Talk, sing, and make eye contact daily to encourage social skills
- Avoid screens during the first two years (yes, even educational ones)
- Stick to regular checkups and developmental screenings
The earlier you catch potential delays, the sooner you can support your child. Even if autism is diagnosed, early intervention makes a huge difference in long-term outcomes.
The Reality of Preventing Autism
Autism is complex and not fully in anyone’s control. But that doesn’t mean your actions don’t matter. What really counts is creating the healthiest start you can, both physically and emotionally, for your family. It’s about building a foundation of care, patience, and awareness that supports every step of your child’s journey. No matter what, being proactive and informed helps you face uncertainty with confidence, not just about autism, but about all the challenges parenthood can bring.