Taking paracetamol during pregnancy is generally considered safe. A recent review published in The Lancet has found no evidence linking its use to autism, ADHD, or developmental issues in children. This research should reassure expectant mothers, especially in light of earlier controversial claims suggesting otherwise.
Last year, former US President Donald Trump claimed that paracetamol, also known as acetaminophen in the US, could harm unborn children. These comments caused considerable concern and confusion among medical professionals and pregnant women. In response, researchers conducted a review of 43 high-quality studies involving hundreds of thousands of pregnancies, comparing those where mothers took paracetamol to those where they did not.
Lead author Professor Asma Khalil emphasized the robust nature of this analysis, stating, “When we examined the data, we found no links to autism.” Medical organizations in the UK and US have similarly supported the use of paracetamol during pregnancy, reinforcing its status as the recommended pain relief for women.
Recent expert opinions indicate that the fear surrounding paracetamol’s safety may be misplaced. Professor Grainne McAlonnan from King’s College London stressed that it’s essential for mothers to avoid unnecessary stress over using a common painkiller. Meanwhile, Professor Jan Haavik, a molecular neuroscientist, stressed that factors leading to autism are complex and include genetic and environmental influences, not merely medication use during pregnancy.
It’s also important to note that untreated pain or high fever in pregnant women can pose risks. Health advice suggests that avoiding pain relief can lead to complications such as miscarriage or premature birth. Therefore, using paracetamol as directed remains the safest option.
In contrast, recent statements from the US Department of Health express concerns about acetaminophen use during pregnancy. A review led by Dr. Andrew Baccarelli from Harvard raised alarms over the potential risks associated with prolonged use. However, the FDA maintains that there is no established causal relationship between acetaminophen and neurological conditions.
Ultimately, the understanding of paracetamol’s safety during pregnancy continues to evolve. While it remains the most trusted painkiller available for expectant mothers, ongoing research is vital for clear guidance. Providing expectant mothers with accurate, evidence-based information is crucial to ease concerns and ensure their health and that of their babies.
For those interested in reading more, you can find the original study here and updates from the FDA on acetaminophen here.
