Similar Questions
Member
Jacki...
Answer:
Hi there
I have a number of parents who use bab...
Answered:
01 May 2008
Member
Jacki...
Answer:
Hi Leeanne,
Thank you for your email. T...
Answered:
29 Jan 2008
Member
Are men over the age of fifty responsible for causing autism in children?
Hi my name is Audrey and I am due to have my second baby, in September, I have three questions to ask you. First of all I read on the internet taht men over the age of fifty are responsible for causing autism in children, this has worried me, because my partner is 67. Also I take Dilantin for epilepsy and an anti depresant and was wondering if my baby if at any risk of getting any birth defect. Lastly as I said this is my second baby, I would like some tips on how I can invovle my four year old in the pregnancy and birth.
Alex ...
Answer:
Hi Audrey,
Thank you for your enquiry. There is an increase in the incidence of autism when the father is over 50 but it doesn’t necessarily mean that your baby will have autism. There are many other factors that can be associated with autism and this is only one of them. Your Dilantin levels should be checked during pregnancy as they may need to be adjusted during pregnancy. If you take Dilantin and anti-depressants it is generally far better to continue to take these medications as the benefits far outweigh any detriments to you and your baby. There are slight increases of complications but these are very low. A four year old sibling is able to participate in the plans for the baby and should be included in most activities and not feel as if they are excluded. This needs to continue after the birth and if they do feel involved they can often be of some assistance rather than seeking more attention.
Best wishes,
Alex
Thank you for your enquiry. There is an increase in the incidence of autism when the father is over 50 but it doesn’t necessarily mean that your baby will have autism. There are many other factors that can be associated with autism and this is only one of them. Your Dilantin levels should be checked during pregnancy as they may need to be adjusted during pregnancy. If you take Dilantin and anti-depressants it is generally far better to continue to take these medications as the benefits far outweigh any detriments to you and your baby. There are slight increases of complications but these are very low. A four year old sibling is able to participate in the plans for the baby and should be included in most activities and not feel as if they are excluded. This needs to continue after the birth and if they do feel involved they can often be of some assistance rather than seeking more attention.
Best wishes,
Alex
Answered:
08 Feb 2008