What the Research Shows About Tylenol (Acetaminophen) and Pregnancy
Key Vocabulary
acetaminophen (/əˌsiːtəˈmɪnəfən/)
autism (/ˈɔːtɪzəm/)
association (/əˌsoʊsiˈeɪʃən/)
📖 Article
Many people are talking about whether Tylenol (acetaminophen) in pregnancy affects babies' development. Studies over the last decade have mixed results but they have not proved that the medicine causes autism.
A large study in Sweden compared siblings and did not find a link. One review looked at 46 studies and found that many showed a possible association, so experts say more research is needed and pregnant people should talk with their doctor before using medicines. Health groups still recommend acetaminophen for pain and fever when needed, because untreated fever can harm the mother and baby. Use the lowest effective dose and ask a clinician if you are unsure.
❓ Quiz
💬 Discussion
Do you take over-the-counter medicine like acetaminophen when you have a fever? Why or why not?
Have you ever been given advice about medicine use during pregnancy? What was the advice?
What do you think is more important: treating a fever quickly or avoiding all medicines? Why?