When it comes to pregnancy, few topics cause more worry for patients than the safety of medications. Recently, there has been renewed public discussion about whether acetaminophen—the most commonly used pain reliever during pregnancy—may be linked to autism or other neurodevelopmental conditions in children. Understandably, these reports raise alarm for expectant parents.
However, it’s important to look at what the scientific evidence actually shows.
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), the nation’s leading authority on maternal health, has made clear its position: there is no credible scientific evidence that acetaminophen use in pregnancy causes autism, ADHD, or other neurodevelopmental disorders.
Read ACOG’s complete statement.
What the Research Shows About Acetaminophen in Pregnancy
Over more than 20 years of study, acetaminophen has been closely examined in the context of pregnancy. Not a single high-quality study has demonstrated a causal link between acetaminophen use at any stage of pregnancy and the development of autism or other neurodevelopmental disorders in children.
Two of the most rigorous studies to date—including one published in JAMA in 2023—found no significant association between acetaminophen use during pregnancy and risks of autism, ADHD, or intellectual disability. These studies were designed to address many of the shortcomings seen in earlier work.
Why Acetaminophen in Pregnancy Matters
It’s also important to remember why acetaminophen is used. It is one of the few pain- and fever-reducing medications considered safe during pregnancy. For many patients, it is the only option available.
- Fever in pregnancy can pose real risks to both mother and baby if left untreated.
- Headaches may be an early sign of complications like preeclampsia and should not be ignored.
- Pain relief is essential to maternal well-being and, in some cases, to overall pregnancy health.
The potential harms of leaving these conditions untreated far outweigh any theoretical risks posed by acetaminophen.
Guidance for Patients
If you are pregnant and have questions about medication use, the most important step is to discuss your individual situation with your healthcare provider. They can help you make decisions based on your health, your pregnancy, and the most up-to-date medical evidence.
At RMA, we are committed to providing our patients with accurate, evidence-based information to guide them through every step of their fertility and pregnancy journey.