If you are pregnant and feeling ill, you should always consult your physician first for advice before taking any medication. Leah D. Tatum, MD, FACOG, Ob/Gyn at ARC North Austin Ob/Gyn and Fellow of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), spoke to the Austin American-Statesman about the use of acetaminophen (Tylenol) during pregnancy.
What does science say about the use of Tylenol and autism or ADHD?
According to Dr. Tatum, Tylenol is safe to use during pregnancy. *
She explained that there is no proven evidence that Tylenol causes neurological damage, and that the science has shown autism is caused by many factors, including genetics.
To date, studies show that there is no direct link between acetaminophen and autism and ADHD.
The latest and largest relevant study, published in 2024, compared siblings of the same parents. One sibling was exposed to acetaminophen in the womb, and one was not, to eliminate confounding factors. This study did not find any association between Tylenol and autism or ADHD.
Experts acknowledge that studies from 2019 and 2020 report a possible association between acetaminophen and autism and ADHD, however, a causal relationship has not been established.
*During pregnancy, you should always consult your doctor prior to taking medications.
What are the risks of fever during pregnancy?
Fever during pregnancy can be the first sign of an infection, and both the infection and a high fever can be harmful, especially when left untreated.
"We know that having a high fever in pregnancy, especially persistent fever in the first trimester, can contribute to damage to the developing embryo and injury to the fetus," said Dr. Tatum. "That's why we always try to assess and treat infections."
Many studies note that when fever is assessed and treated promptly with hydration and Tylenol when needed, the risk of harm to the fetus is significantly lower.
ACOG affirms safety and benefits of acetaminophen during pregnancy
According to ACOG, acetaminophen is one of the few options available to pregnant patients to treat pain and high fever. Acetaminophen can be found in Tylenol as well as Dayquil, Midol, Theraflu, and many other over-the-counter medications. Other fever reducers like Ibuprofen are not recommended during pregnancy because of an increased risk of miscarriage, premature birth, and certain birth defects.
Maternal fever, headaches as an early sign of preeclampsia, and pain are all managed with the therapeutic use of acetaminophen, making acetaminophen essential during pregnancy. Acetaminophen treats conditions that are far more dangerous to the mother and fetus than any theoretical risk of the medication itself.
When considering the use of medication in pregnancy, it's important to consider all potential risks along with any benefits. The data from numerous studies have shown that acetaminophen plays an important—and safe—role in the well-being of pregnant women.
*If you are experiencing abnormal symptoms or have health concerns during pregnancy, you should reach out to your obstetrician for discussion, guidance, and joint decision making, including the use of Tylenol.
Make an appointment today
ARC Ob/Gyn physicians provide care for patients from adolescence and beyond and offer several ways to schedule.
- ARC MyChart: For ARC patients scheduling a gynecology appointment.
- BOOK NOW on AustinRegionalClinic.com: For new patients and those without MyChart booking an Annual Exam with an Ob/Gyn.
- 512-ARC-INFO (512-272-4636): For all other appointments.