Causes of Cerebral Palsy
Causes of cerebral palsy are rooted in injury or abnormal development of the brain during pregnancy, birth, or shortly after delivery. While not all causes can be pinpointed, the underlying issue is always related to disrupted development of brain areas that control movement. Understanding the causes of cerebral palsy can help with prevention in some cases and improve awareness for early diagnosis.
1. Prenatal Causes (Before Birth)
Most cases of cerebral palsy are due to factors that affect the brain while the baby is still in the womb. These include:
- Infections such as rubella, toxoplasmosis, or cytomegalovirus (CMV), which can inflame the foetal brain
- Reduced oxygen supply (hypoxia) to the brain during critical developmental periods
- Genetic mutations that interfere with normal brain formation
- Maternal health issues, including thyroid problems or exposure to toxins
- Multiple births (twins or triplets), where the risk of premature birth or complications is higher
2. Perinatal Causes (During Birth) | Causes of Cerebral Palsy
Labour and delivery complications may also contribute to cerebral palsy, especially when there’s:
- Prolonged or difficult delivery
- Umbilical cord problems, which reduce oxygen flow to the baby
- Premature birth, where the brain is more vulnerable to injury
- Low birth weight, often linked to underdeveloped organs and systems
Although oxygen deprivation during birth was once believed to be the primary cause, newer research suggests it accounts for a smaller percentage of cases than previously thought.
3. Postnatal Causes (After Birth)
In the early weeks or months after birth, brain injuries may still lead to cerebral palsy. These include:
- Severe jaundice, which can cause a condition called kernicterus
- Brain infections, such as meningitis or encephalitis
- Head trauma from accidents or abuse
- Stroke in a young infant
- Seizures in the newborn period
Despite these known causes, in up to 30% of cases, no specific reason is identified. These are classified as idiopathic, but the effects on the child remain the same.
Causes of Cerebral Palsy
Recognising the causes of cerebral palsy helps guide early intervention, especially in high-risk infants, and informs parents and healthcare providers about how best to support development.
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