Summary
A study found that getting sick during pregnancy might increase the chance of a child attempting suicide later in life. Researchers linked maternal infections during pregnancy, particularly in the second and third trimesters, to higher suicide risk in children. The study emphasizes prevention and early treatment but notes that not all children exposed to infections will have mental health issues.
Key Facts
- The study analyzed health data from Denmark, tracking over two million people from childhood to adulthood.
- Children whose mothers had infections during pregnancy were more likely to attempt suicide.
- The study was conducted by researchers from McGill University, the Danish Research Institute for Suicide Prevention, the University of Copenhagen, and Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health.
- The researchers focused on maternal infections because they cause inflammation, which may affect fetal brain development.
- The study looked at infections caused by bacteria and viruses before, during, and after pregnancy.
- Strongest links to suicide attempts were found with infections during pregnancy, especially in the later stages.
- No similar link was found between paternal infections and suicide risk.
- Not all children exposed to infections during pregnancy will face mental health issues; infections are common and often unavoidable.
