Autism spectrum disorder is defined as disorder that appears in early childhood. It manifests itself through deficiencies in social communication and social interactions, and the basic characteristic of this developmental disorder is limited behavior and its repetitive activities. Autism is the subject of numerous studies that analyze the general characteristics of this disorder and try to determine the causes of its origin and development. In the last decade, the focus of a large amount of research has been on investigating the influence of genetics and environmental factors relevant for the development of autism. Finding a new knowledge about factors that increase the risk of developing autism, would greatly contribute to changes in the understanding and approach to the said disorder. Conducted research shows that the development of autism is influenced by many factors related to the mother's pregnancy. Possible causes of autism include preeclampsia during pregnancy, gestational diabetes during pregnancy and infections during pregnancy. Exposure of the mother to medications from the group of antidepressants as well as certain antipyretics also increases the risk of developing autism. The causes of the appearance and development of autism can be related to childbirth and breastfeeding. Premature birth, i.e. birth before the completion of 37 weeks of pregnancy, and the birth of a child with a low birth weight are cited as the most common causes of autism related to childbirth.