Pregnancy Pain Relief: Acetaminophen Safe, Study Confirms

A recent review of 43 studies has found no strong evidence linking acetaminophen use during pregnancy to autism or other developmental issues. This conclusion was reached by a team led by Dr. Asma Khalil, a professor of obstetrics and maternal fetal medicine at St. George’s Hospital, University of London. The findings were published in the British medical journal The Lancet. Acetaminophen, commonly known as the active ingredient in Tylenol, is still recommended as the go-to pain reliever for pregnant women experiencing pain or fever. This recommendation stands despite some previous studies suggesting a possible, though small, increase in risk for neurodevelopmental disorders.The review comes after a controversial statement by President Trump in September, where he advised pregnant women to avoid Tylenol, citing unproven risks of autism. This statement was part of a broader effort by Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to explore potential causes of rising autism rates, including debunked theories about vaccines. Medical organizations worldwide, including the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, quickly refuted the president’s claims. They emphasized that doctors already advise pregnant women to use acetaminophen carefully and warned that untreated fevers could pose health risks to both mother and baby. The conflicting data from previous studies highlights the need for more research to fully understand the effects of acetaminophen during pregnancy. Until then, the current consensus remains that acetaminophen is safe when used as directed.