Abstract

This paper defends the hypothesis of a potential causal link between increased usage of hormonal contraceptives (HCs) and significant rises in instances of Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASDs) worldwide. It develops a background theory that supports this hypothesis through analysis of: observed correlations between increased usage of HCs and increased instances of ASDs; consistent evidence from independent studies linking “birth spacing” intervals and ASD-risk; evidence from studies on the effects of HCs on folate and B12 absorption; and hypotheses concerning disruptions to mechanisms of delivery of folate and B12 during periods of in utero brain development. The proposed theory is then defended through discussion of how it may explain numerous puzzling correlations with increased instances of ASDs documented in certain demographics.