Researchers analysed 11 studies to understand how maternal diabetes during pregnancy relates to autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in children. The question was straightforward: does a mother's diabetes increase her child's autism risk? The studies included mothers with Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes before pregnancy, as well as those who developed gestational diabetes (temporary diabetes during pregnancy).
This matters for Singapore families because diabetes rates are rising, and many women of childbearing age live with diabetes or develop it during pregnancy.
Preexisting diabetes carries stronger autism risk than gestational diabetes
The research found that mothers with diabetes before pregnancy showed a stronger and more consistent link to autism in their children compared to mothers who developed gestational diabetes during pregnancy. Gestational diabetes also increased autism risk, but the connection varied more from study to study. This suggests that how long diabetes affects the body during pregnancy—and its severity—may influence the outcome.
Early screening and management can help
For Singapore parents, this research highlights why preconception health checks matter. If you have diabetes or a family history of it, discussing pregnancy plans with your doctor before conceiving allows time to optimise your health and adjust medications if needed. During pregnancy, the gestational diabetes screening test (usually around 24–28 weeks) is crucial. Early detection and management of gestational diabetes can reduce risks to your baby's health in several ways.
What you can do before and during pregnancy
- Get your blood sugar checked before pregnancy if you have diabetes or suspect you might—this allows time to optimise your health (max 25 words)
- Attend gestational diabetes screening during pregnancy (around 24–28 weeks) and follow management advice if detected (max 25 words)
- Work with your healthcare team to manage diabetes before and during pregnancy for your overall health and baby's development (max 25 words)