Which prenatal factor can place a child at risk for developmental delay?

Maternal age is a significant prenatal factor that can influence the risk of developmental delays in children. Research indicates that both younger maternal ages (particularly those under 18) and older maternal ages (especially those over 35) are associated with increased risks for various developmental issues. The reasons behind this are multifaceted; younger mothers may face socioeconomic challenges, lack of prenatal care, and higher rates of certain health complications, while older mothers may be more likely to experience chromosomal abnormalities and other medical conditions that can affect fetal development.

In contrast, access to early childhood education, family wealth, and the gender of the baby are less direct factors when considering prenatal risks specifically. While they can influence development postnatally, they do not have the same direct link to prenatal conditions or complications that maternal age does. Understanding the implications of maternal age helps in anticipating and addressing potential developmental challenges in children.