Research shows the benefits of taking the common pain & fever reliever Tylenol (acetaminophen) during pregnancy outweigh maternal & fetal health risks, with no confirmed tie to autism or ADHD.
CU OB-GYN East Denver stands aligned with national medical organizations, including the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine (SMFM) and American College of Obstetricians & Gynecologists (ACOG), in reaffirming that acetaminophen – including the well-known brand Tylenol – is safe to use during pregnancy.
In recent weeks, public concern has grown over the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) September 22 announcement questioning the safety of acetaminophen use during pregnancy and directly linking use of the medication to neurodevelopmental conditions.
However, both SMFM and ACOG emphasize that decades of rigorous research show no reliable evidence that use of acetaminophen during pregnancy causes childhood neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism or ADHD (attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder).
Untreated fever & pain pose greater risks during pregnancy than taking Tylenol/acetaminophen
Acetaminophen remains an important and safe drug for managing pain and fever during pregnancy. In fact, use of Tylenol or other generic over-the-counter acetaminophen medications can actually protect against risks in pregnancy.
For example, untreated fever, particularly in the first trimester, is linked to miscarriage, premature birth and birth defects. Ongoing, untreated maternal pain can lead to depression and/or anxiety and high blood pressure, which can negatively affect both parent and baby.
Studies linking Tylenol/acetaminophen to autism are unreliable
Some studies cited by HHS in its announcement attempt to draw a causation connection between acetaminophen use in pregnancy and conditions such as autism and ADHD. But experts stress that these findings are inconclusive with flawed research methodologies, such as relying on self-reported data and failing to account for other factors that may influence outcomes.
The most robust research on this topic to date, including a 2024 study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA), found no significant association between acetaminophen use in pregnancy and autism, ADHD or intellectual disabilities.
Bottom line: speak to your medical provider about what’s safe for you
Rest assured: Acetaminophen/Tylenol pain and fever relievers are safe during pregnancy when used as directed. But as with any medication, both prescribed and over-the-counter, we advise pregnant patients to speak with their healthcare providers about what medications are safe to take, especially when fever or other concerns arise.