A new study suggests that Covid-19 infection during pregnancy may affect how a baby’s brain develops, slightly increasing the risk of neurodevelopmental disorders in early childhood.
Researchers at a leading medical center in Boston analyzed over 18,000 births from March 2020 to May 2021. Among 861 mothers who tested positive for Covid-19 during pregnancy, 16.3% of their children were diagnosed with developmental conditions such as autism, speech delays, or motor coordination issues by age three. In comparison, the rate was 9.7% among children whose mothers were not infected.
After adjusting for factors like maternal age and health, the study found that infection during pregnancy was linked to a 29% higher likelihood of neurodevelopmental disorders. Boys appeared more vulnerable than girls, and the risk was highest when infection occurred in the third trimester — a crucial phase for brain development.
Dr. Andrea Edlow, a maternal-fetal medicine specialist and senior author of the study, said Covid-19 “may pose risks not only to the mother but also to fetal brain development.” Researchers believe the effect may stem from the body’s immune and inflammatory responses rather than direct viral transmission to the fetus.
Despite the association, experts emphasized that the overall risk remains low. Co-author Dr. Roy Perlis noted that most children exposed to Covid-19 in the womb develop normally, though early screening and developmental support could help those at risk.
The study was conducted during the first year of the pandemic, when most pregnant women were unvaccinated. Researchers said this highlights the continued importance of preventing infection during pregnancy, including through vaccination.
Lead author Dr. Lydia Shook added that awareness can empower parents: “By understanding the risks, parents can advocate for proper evaluation and early support for their children.”
