Risk factors for developmental disorders during the phase of pregnancy

The infographic above shares the risk factors for developmental disorders during the phase of pregnancy

Caregiving for a child with a developmental disability involves financial, emotional, and physical strain on the family. Developmental disabilities can involve cognitive or sensory difficulties, social or language-related problems, motor impairments, adaptive delay or a combination of these. Developmental disabilities occur worldwide and can happen to any family irrespective of socio-economic strata, race and ethnicity.

Some of the causes of developmental delays unfortunately are idiopathic, i.e. disabilities that arise due to unknown causes. Such factors are beyond human control.  In such cases, early recognition of their existence, a timely diagnosis and an appropriate treatment/therapy plan can make a difference for the children and families involved.

However, a large percentage of developmental delays are borne out of risks that can either be prevented or regulated. It is thus very important to be aware of the various avoidable risk factors for developmental disorders during the phase of pregnancy.

The infographic below outlines some of the most commonly observed prenatal (before the birth of the baby) risk factors for developmental disabilities.

Additionally, do check out our infographic that highlights developmental risks in a newborn child.

Acknowledgements: We thank Dr. Sana Smriti, Neuro developmental and Behaviour Pediatrician for the time and effort taken to help us with proofreading and revisions made towards the content of the poster. We thank our volunteers Ms. Sailaja Tadimeti & Mr. Krishnaji Devalkar for the time and effort taken towards translating of this content from English to Telugu.

If you have questions about Autism, Down Syndrome, ADHD, or other intellectual disabilities, or have concerns about developmental delays in a child, the Nayi Disha team is here to help. For any questions or queries, please contact our FREE Helpline at 844-844-8996. You can call or what’s app us.

DISCLAIMER: Please note that this guide is for information purposes only. Please consult a qualified health practitioner for safe management.