Severe maternal morbidity is associated with increased risk of cerebral palsy in offspring

In this population-based study of more than 2 million births, severe maternal morbidity was associated with an increased risk of cerebral palsy. This risk was observed across major severe morbidity subtypes, including hypertensive disorders, hemorrhage, and sepsis. These findings highlight the potential benefits of optimizing maternal health and illustrate potential long-term adverse consequences of severe maternal morbidity in offspring. Children of mothers who experience severe or life-threatening events during the perinatal period may benefit from enhanced surveillance for early cerebral palsy symptoms.