20/10/2025
Cerebral palsy is caused by abnormal brain development or damage to a developing brain that occurs before, during, or shortly after birth. While the exact cause is often not identifiable, contributing factors can include genetic mutations, infections during pregnancy, a stroke in the womb, or complications during delivery.
Causes before birth
Genetic mutations:
Spontaneous or inherited genetic changes can affect normal brain development.
Infections:
The mother contracting an infection, such as cytomegalovirus, during pregnancy can be a risk factor.
Fetal stroke:
A stroke occurring in the womb that causes bleeding or cuts off the blood supply to the baby's brain.
Problems with the placenta or mother's health:
Issues like placental problems, high fever, or untreated severe jaundice in the mother can increase risk.
Causes during or after birth
Lack of oxygen: The baby's brain temporarily not getting enough oxygen during a difficult birth or a related issue like umbilical cord problems.
Premature birth: Being born prematurely is a major risk factor, with many cases stemming from issues that occur around the time of birth, such as those listed above.
Infections in the newborn: Infections such as meningitis can cause brain damage.
Stroke: A stroke in the newborn can occur shortly after birth.
Acquired cerebral palsy
Brain damage: Caused by events more than 28 days after birth.
Infections: Such as meningitis, that can occur in early childhood.
Head injury: A traumatic brain injury in early life.
Near-drowning or other accidents: Incidents that result in the brain not getting enough oxygen.
