to read more please go to

http://www.cnn.com/2011/HEALTH/07/04...html?hpt=hp_t2

Chicken or the egg? Which comes first.

You know, when I was pregnant with my child who was later diagnosed on Autism Spectrum, I didn't take medications, I didn't take drugs, I didn't smoke tobacco, I didn't consume foods with caffeine. I didn't take alcohol. I didn't do this. I didn't do that. I thought I was doing all the right things. I was so, so very careful. I was healthy and strong and fit.

I wasn't young though. I was an older mother and have come to know I have certain traits.

I had been treated for depression in my younger life after terrible tragedies with my own parents. Did the medications given to me then affect my genetics later on? Did the fact that my own Father suffered from terrible vitamin deficiencies whilst a POW of the Japanese during WW2 affect "MY" genetics?

Is the actual depression, or anxiety or whatever, a link to the condition rather than the drugs to treat it?

I guess I am so fortunate in so many ways. My son has many gifts. He's the smartest person I've ever known. I love him so dearly and I would never ever, ever, feel guilty for giving him this life. There's nothing WRONG with him! I see him as a voice of the future.

It's not always so great, I do know.

I have heard of a similar story that may link autism with antidepressants. Have you heard this at all?

Thanks,

Candace

same for me, 34y.o during pregnancy, did all the right things, but wonder if the antidepressant i started when he was 6mths old and fully breast fed wasn't as safe as dr. said.
...oh and the stressful marriage probably didn't help his pre-birth environment

I have a 14 yr old Aspie. He was not diagnosed till he was at least 10yrs old. I took anti-depressants while pregnant with him. But this was back in 1998 when these new medications were supposed to be "safe". If I only knew then, what I know now.

But I don't necessarily look at his Asperger's negatively. Because he is my son. He is my heart and soul, and I was given him for a reason.

The interesting thing is he isnt the typical Aspie. He always keeps me guessing!