Paracetamol, Pregnancy, and Autism: What Scientific Research Reveals

In recent discussions, former US President Donald Trump claimed that the use of paracetamol (also known as acetaminophen or Tylenol) during pregnancy is linked to an increased risk of autism in children. He urged pregnant women to avoid this common pain relief medication. This statement has sparked widespread concern, confusion, and responses from health professionals around the world. However, it’s important to understand the actual scientific evidence behind such claims.

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental condition characterized by differences in social interaction, communication, and behavior. It is not an illness but a lifelong condition that varies greatly among individuals. The reported rise in autism diagnoses over recent decades is mainly attributed to increased awareness, broader diagnostic criteria, and better access to assessments. These factors have led to more accurate identification, including in populations like women and those with atypical presentations who might have previously been overlooked.

Trump’s comments referenced supposed evidence linking prenatal paracetamol exposure to autism, including claims that certain communities, such as the Amish and Cubans, have lower autism rates because they do not use the drug. Yet, documented cases of autism exist within these populations as well, and their use of paracetamol, though less widespread, contradicts the oversimplified correlation. The complexity of autism’s causes involves a mix of genetic and environmental factors. It is critical not to attribute the condition to a single medication or factor.

Scientific research provides a more nuanced understanding. A 2025 review of 46 studies, funded by the US National Institutes of Health, indicated that some studies found associations between prenatal paracetamol use and neurodevelopmental issues. Still, these do not prove causality, and confounding factors — such as underlying illnesses that prompted medication use (like infections or fever) — could influence results.

In contrast, a large Swedish nationwide study involving over 2.4 million children found no evidence that maternal paracetamol use during pregnancy increased autism risk once genetic and familial factors were considered. Other recent reviews concur that when used as recommended, paracetamol is unlikely to contribute to autism risk.

Autism’s origins involve complex interactions between genetic predispositions and environmental influences such as maternal infections, certain medications, parental age, and birth complications. No single cause explains all cases, emphasizing that autism is a multifactorial condition.

For pregnant women, the use of paracetamol remains considered safe by health authorities like the UK’s medicines regulator, provided it is used responsibly and at the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration. Untreated pain and fever can pose significant risks during pregnancy, including birth defects like spina bifida, cleft lip, or heart issues. Alternative pain management options such as ibuprofen or aspirin are generally not recommended during pregnancy unless prescribed by a healthcare provider.

In conclusion, the scientific evidence supports the safety of paracetamol when used appropriately during pregnancy. The focus should remain on evidence-based healthcare advice, rather than unsubstantiated claims that fuel unnecessary fear. It is crucial for pregnant women to consult their healthcare providers for guidance on managing pain and fever, trusting in the prevailing scientific consensus.

This overview underscores the importance of understanding autism’s multifaceted nature and the risks of oversimplified narratives. Paracetamol remains a safe option for most pregnant women needing relief from pain or fever when used as directed. The primary message is to rely on scientific evidence and expert guidance, rather than misinformation or political speculation.