Expectant mothers in New York might be surprised to hear of research that suggests that inducing labor may lead to them having a greater chance of having a child with autism. According to data from the U.S. government, one out of 50 school-age children have an autism spectrum disorder. All of the conditions within this group of development brain orders have some level of impairment concerning communication, social skills and behavioral issues.
About the study
Researchers reportedly analyzed data from the North Carolina Detailed Birth Record and Education Research databases; of the roughly 625,000 live births, approximately 5,500 of the children had autism. The research further suggested that nearly two out of every 1,000 cases of autism in boys might have been prevented if labor had not been induced. Even though those numbers might seem small, they still indicate that autism could be contributed to a birth injury.
Research findings
Research further revealed that mothers who had induced or augmented labor, or even both, were more likely to have children with autism. Research also showed that mothers who had other pregnancy issues like diabetes also had an increase in the risk of their children having autism, as well as those whose fetuses that were ever in distress. C-sections reportedly did not affect the rate of autism.
Injury cases after birth injuries
Parents whose children were born with birth injuries due to medical practice might choose to file a lawsuit against the doctors or facilities responsible. Such lawsuits could potentially financially compensate them for their children’s conditions. Medical malpractice lawyers might be able to assist them in filing and pursuing settlements for such lawsuits.
Source: CBS News, “Induced labor may increase risk of autism in offspring“, Michelle Castillo, August 12, 2013
