Children born to mothers who had Covid-19 during pregnancy face a higher risk of developmental disorders, researchers have found. These issues include speech delays, autism, and motor impairments. Scientists from Mass General Brigham in the US said immune activation during pregnancy may disrupt normal brain growth in the fetus.
Dr. Andrea Edlow, a Maternal-Foetal Medicine expert, said Covid-19 could affect both the mother and the baby’s brain development. The study, published in Obstetrics and Gynecology, reviewed 18,124 births between March 2020 and May 2021. Among 861 Covid-positive pregnancies, 16.3% of children developed neurodevelopmental issues, compared with 9.7% among uninfected pregnancies.
After adjusting for several factors, researchers found a 29% higher chance of brain-related disorders in Covid-exposed children. Boys faced greater risk than girls. Infections during the third trimester showed the highest impact.
Experts said the overall risk remains low but urged pregnant women to prevent infection. Dr. Roy Perlis from Mass General Brigham said vaccination awareness is vital, especially as trust in vaccines continues to decline.
