Labor Induction does not Increase Autism Risk

A recent study shows that there is no connection between induced labor and an increased risk of autism.

According to a recent statement issued by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, limiting labor inductions could increase health risks for the mother and child in high risk cases.

While a previous study conducted last year by researchers at Duke University Medical Center indicated that labor induction could increase the risk of autism for some children, a recent study indicated a weak link between the two factors.

"Recognizing the limitations of available study design, conflicting data, and the potential consequences of limiting labor induction and augmentation, the Committee on Obstetric Practice recommends against a change in current guidance regarding counseling and indications for and methods of labor induction and augmentation," the committee concluded, according to Health Day. 

Previous studies have blamed exposure to oxytocin--a hormone administered in the majority of induced or augmented labors--for the alleged link between labor induction and autism.

However, the new committee's opinion states evidence that this is "inconsistent and does not demonstrate causation."

Based on a 2012 summary of nine studies examining the issues, three of the studies found a small link between induced labor and autism, while the other link showed no connection at all, according to Medical News Today. 

"Current evidence does not identify a causal relationship between labor induction or augmentation in general, or oxytocin labor induction specifically, and autism or ASD."

Furthermore, researchers stress that current studies should not influence obstetric care.

More information regarding the findings can be seen via the journal Obstetrics & Gynecology.