Re-evaluating the impact of prenatal low-dose aspirin on child neurodevelopment

Abstract

Prophylactic use of low-dose aspirin starting from 12 weeks of gestation has been recommended to women at high risk of preeclampsia by clinical guidelines. Aspirin can cross the placenta and may exert its pharmacological effects on both the mother and the fetus. However, it remains uncertain whether prenatal low-dose aspirin exposure has influences on child neurodevelopment. Current evidences indicate that prenatal low-dose aspirin exposure is not associated with harmful effects and may even offer potential benefits on child neurodevelopment. This article reviews pharmacokinetic characteristics of aspirin in maternal and fetal circulation and discusses potential pathways between prenatal aspirin exposure and child neurodevelopment. Due to the deficiencies in current studies, further observational and experimental studies are warranted to explore the influence and underlying mechanisms of prenatal low-dose aspirin on child neurodevelopment.