Can a pregnant woman's use of effexor (venlafaxine) cause autism in the baby?

Don't think so: I know of no good study to make you worry about this.

Effexor (venlafaxine): No one is completely sure what causes autism. It is probably caused by multiple factors including a possible genetic predisposition similar to breast cancer in certain populations. Effexor (venlafaxine) is a ssri medication. It is know to cause increased jitteriness and withdrawal type symptoms in a newborn when exposed in the 3rd trimester. No relationship with autism has been demonstrated.

No evidence found: No peer-reviewed scientific studies implicate venlafaxine as a teratogen or an epigenetic factor in autism. Venlafaxine, an snri, & most ssri antidepressants. Are class c because their use during the 3rd trimester may cause transient withdrawal-type symptoms in a neonate vs. A 67% recurrence of maternal depression if withdrawn abruptly. Lawyers can and do attack drug companies without evidence.