Many expectant mothers do everything they can to protect their growing baby. That is why new research connecting certain common medications to autism has left many families feeling uneasy. The findings highlight a concern that touches millions of women worldwide.

The study looked at glucocorticoids, a class of anti-inflammatory steroids often prescribed during pregnancy. These drugs help prevent premature birth and treat conditions like asthma, lupus, and rheumatoid arthritis. But researchers found that babies exposed in the womb were more likely to develop autism later in childhood.

The turning point in the study came when long-term data revealed a clear pattern. Children exposed to glucocorticoids were 30 to 50 percent more likely to be diagnosed with autism. The study also found higher rates of ADHD, anxiety, and intellectual disabilities among the exposed group.

Glucocorticoids mimic cortisol, a hormone that helps the body manage stress and inflammation. While helpful for certain pregnancy complications, too much exposure may affect how a baby’s brain develops. Researchers believe this hormonal imbalance may disrupt healthy growth during the early stages of life.

More than one million children were included in the study, making the results difficult to ignore. Scientists say the findings call for “continued caution” when prescribing these drugs to pregnant women. They note that safer alternatives may exist, but more research is needed.

For now, the study serves as a gentle reminder that every treatment choice in pregnancy carries weight—and thoughtful conversations with doctors matter more than ever.