Main content Down Syndrome

Down Syndrome

What Happens

Although every child is different, you may find it helpful to understand some patterns of Down syndrome as your child grows. It also helps to know that most people who have Down syndrome can flourish and live healthy, happy, and productive lives.

Many of the challenges for people with Down syndrome are related to Reference intellectual disability Opens New Window and health problems. Problems may come up at different ages.

Babies

Your baby may reach growth and development milestones later than other children do. These may include rolling over, sitting, standing, walking, and talking.

Children

In this age group, health problems and Reference developmental disabilities Opens New Window can lead to behavior problems. For example, a child may develop Reference oppositional defiant disorder Opens New Window in part because he or she does not communicate well or understand others' expectations.

Teens

Reference Puberty Opens New Window starts at about the same ages for teens with Down syndrome as for other teens.

They may face Reference social difficulties and vulnerabilities, such as abuse, injury, and other types of harm. They may also have a hard time handling strong emotions and feelings. Sometimes these struggles can lead to mental health problems, especially depression.

Adults

Men with Down syndrome most often are sterile and cannot father children. Many women with Down syndrome can have children, and they usually have early Reference menopause Opens New Window.

By:	Reference Healthwise Staff	Last Revised: Reference August 7, 2012
Medical Review:	Reference Susan C. Kim, MD - Pediatrics Reference Louis Pellegrino, MD - Developmental Pediatrics