Audrey Selemela Speech-Language Therapy

26/09/2025

26/09/2025

24/09/2025

Today I want to focus on the very real impact the spreading of misinformation has on parents, pregnancies, and babies.

When Autism is stigmatized, and misleading information not supported by science is shared as factual- this causes real harm that cannot (and should not) be ignored.

I need to highlight these are correlated and do not show causation. But the large difference is significant and should not be ignored ❤️

We know untreated fevers and pain lead to higher risks of preterm birth, other developmental differences, and possible increases in miscarriage (up to 2Xs but evidence is mixed and theres a lot of factors). Research shows autism rates remain the same with or without Tylenol when accounting for genetics.

We also know autistic people are more likely to have chronic pain and discomfort in pregnancy, so this makes sense they would be more likely to need medication. This is a great example of how correlation does not equal causation.

As always, you should speak with your physician about your own personal medical treatment (not politicians). But please don’t feel like you should “tough it out” when that can cause actual harm OR that you caused your child’s Autism by taking care of yourself and your baby ❤️

This info can be found on the HHS fact sheet but chersich 2020 and and Drier 2014 (systematic review) are great places to start if you want to lear more

23/09/2025

ACOG reaffirms the safety and benefits of acetaminophen use during pregnancy.
More than two decades of research have found no causal link between acetaminophen use during pregnancy and autism, ADHD, or intellectual disability in children. Acetaminophen continues to be an important and safe option for managing pain and fever in pregnancy—conditions that can pose serious risks to pregnant patients and their fetuses if left untreated. Learn more about acetaminophen use during pregnancy: https://bit.ly/4mqIzWr

22/09/2025

Research indicates that kids with autism are twice as likely to have GI issues like constipation, diarrhea, bloating, and stomach pain.

These symptoms can last for years and are linked to sleep, behavior, and learning challenges.

22/09/2025

06/09/2025

Motor challenges in autism are often missed. Early recognition can make a big difference.

Research shows that many autistic children experience motor delays, poor coordination, or atypical movement patternsbut these issues are not always identified or treated.

A recent study of child neurologists found:
✔ Many are unsure if motor impairments are directly linked to autism
✔ Motor skills are not consistently evaluated in practice
✔ Few tools and limited training are available
✔ Barriers to intervention remain

⚡ By increasing awareness, providing better training, and addressing motor needs early, we can support the whole child, helping kids build skills that impact daily living, learning, and participation.

Reference: Kottakota, H., Hotez, E., & Wilson, R. B. (2025). Survey of child neurologists highlights a missed opportunity for identifying and treating motor impairments in autism. Pediatric Neurology.