From womb to wellness: assessment of maternal birth-related risks and dental care among autistic children in Al Madinah, Saudi Arabia

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is rising globally, with limited data on specific risk factors and oral health challenges in Saudi Arabia. This study aimed to investigate prenatal, perinatal, and sociodemographic risk factors associated with ASD and to explore the oral health challenges among children with ASD in Al Madinah, Saudi Arabia. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 114 mothers of children with ASD. Data on demographics, pregnancy history, and oral health behaviors were analyzed using Fisher’s Exact Test and Cramér’s V to determine the significance and strength of associations. Significant associations were found between gestational age and prenatal factors, particularly maternal medication use ( P < 0.001, V = 0.340) and first-trimester hospitalization ( P = 0.004). Notably, a perfect association (V = 1.000, P < 0.001) was observed between familial ASD recurrence and perinatal trauma, specifically assisted vaginal delivery and cerebellar injury. Socioeconomic analysis revealed that maternal education ( P = 0.032) and employment ( P = 0.013) were primary drivers of regular dental attendance, while family income showed no significant effect ( P = 0.581). Dental cooperation showed a marginal trend associated with provider accessibility ( P = 0.067). Perinatal clinical markers and maternal health literacy are more significant predictors of ASD-related outcomes in this cohort than traditional socioeconomic metrics. These findings advocate for enhanced perinatal monitoring and the development of targeted maternal education programs to improve dental preventative care and manage recurrence risks in the region.