![]() Instead research suggests that a number of influences may elevate the chance that an individual may be on the spectrum. So what raises the probability of having an autistic child? Despite years of research, a specific cause of autism has not been determined and there is much debate. Perhaps referring to factors that may contribute to an individual being diagnosed with autism, or factors raising probability are more appropriate terms to use. These are mostly high functioning individuals (often possessing high intellect, and skilled at special interests) who are successful, with fulfilling lives. Many autistic adults express pride in who they are despite difficulties of living in a neurotypical world, they celebrate their unique talents and differently wired brains. Some deem it offensive to speak of high risk factors when it comes to autism. What are the contributing factors to autism? Knowing more about the options available before choosing to undertake the journey may help parents make decisions choices that will seem much tougher when they decide the fate of their fetus. It could also be beneficial for prospective parents to be offered the chance to speak to parents of children on the spectrum, and possibly also those who chose to terminate a pregnancy where autism was detected. ![]() ![]() Perhaps we should all be better educated about what actually causes autism, the possible genetic factors involved, and heritability of the condition. Some experts believe parents with relatives on the spectrum, or those who already have an autistic child, should undergo genetic counseling before having (more) children. If a prenatal test for autism became routine, would an intervention program from birth or even earlier be more effective? And what exactly would parents be preparing for? Parents often wonder just how early this intervention can actually start. Most research examining intervention and treatment for autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in children recommends early intervention. Parents not only want to know whether their baby may be autistic, they want to know the level of support the child will require, the consequences of raising a child on the spectrum, and if early knowledge of the condition is helpful. Because of the many genes involved in autism, a prenatal test may not be easily interpreted or explained. Some medical practitioners have also expressed fear about the commercial angle of such tests driving premature acceptance. Those with a child on the spectrum, especially parents with an autistic child who needs constant care, mostly voice their reluctance to even consider a choice in embarking on a complicated parenthood journey that they’ve adjusted (and in some cases loved adjusting) to.Ī mother-staggering under the weight of societal expectation of caring and nurturing- choosing to abort an autistic baby (who society will remind her, may be born with high intellect and my capabilities) is also likely to deal with judgement, loss and the emotional aftermath of making such a decision. When considering a prenatal test, parents and, let’s be honest, mostly mothers are put in a position to make an impossible choice. Prenatal testing for autism is not widely available, and the ethical implications of such testing are enormous. But when reading about parents provided with knowledge and subsequent choices, a dystopian future where tests decide who gets to live becomes imaginable. At first glance prenatal testing seems like the ultimate feat of modern medicine.
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