In a recent announcement, President Trump stirred controversy by stating that there is “no downside” to avoiding acetaminophen during pregnancy and suggesting that expectant mothers should simply “tough it out” when experiencing fevers. His remarks have drawn sharp criticism from doctors and public health officials who warn that such advice could endanger both mothers and their unborn children.
Acetaminophen, the active ingredient found in Tylenol and various cold and flu medications, is commonly used to alleviate pain and reduce fevers during pregnancy. However, Trump’s remarks came in response to concerns about a supposed link between the use of this medication and an increased risk of autism in children—claims that lack robust scientific support.
During his announcement, Trump stated, “Don’t take it. There’s no downside in not taking it.” He cited the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) suggesting that women limit Tylenol use during pregnancy unless it is medically necessary—an assertion he twisted to imply that most cases of fever were manageable without medication. “If you can’t tough it out, that’s what you’re going to have to do,” he added, downplaying the significance of potential health risks associated with untreated high fevers during pregnancy.
In an open letter to healthcare professionals released shortly after Trump’s comments, FDA Commissioner Marty Makary urged clinicians to consider minimizing acetaminophen use for routine low-grade fevers, yet highlighted that it remains a necessary option in certain medical situations. This cautious stance starkly contrasts with the president’s callous suggestion to endure pain.
Doctors are particularly concerned that the messaging surrounding toughness may lead pregnant women to overlook necessary treatment for conditions that could pose serious risks. Dr. Lucky Sekhon, an OB/GYN and infertility specialist in New York City, expressed her concern that the notion of “toughing it out” has long been ingrained in the healthcare system, often to the detriment of women’s health.
Moreover, healthcare providers fear that women may resort to other pain relief methods that are not safe during pregnancy if they feel pressured to avoid acetaminophen. Makary pointed out in his letter that acetaminophen is the safest over-the-counter pain reliever available to pregnant women compared to other analgesics and antipyretics.
Kenvue, the manufacturer of Tylenol, firmly stated that “independent, sound science clearly shows that taking acetaminophen does not cause autism,” reinforcing its position as the safest option for pregnant women when pain relief is needed. They warned that without access to safe medications, women could be left facing dangerous decisions: endure severe symptoms or risk using less safe alternatives.
The risks associated with untreated fevers during pregnancy cannot be overstated. Medical experts warn that high fevers can lead to numerous complications for a developing baby, particularly in the early stages of pregnancy. Dr. Steven Fleischman, president of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, emphasized the potential for severe birth defects and central nervous system abnormalities linked to untreated fever. He cautioned, “The idea that we’re going to let someone with a fever ‘tough it out’ may have much worse implications for a pregnant woman than taking a dose of acetaminophen to bring that fever down.”
Dr. Céline Gounder, a medical contributor for CBS News, echoed these concerns, highlighting that untreated fever and infections during pregnancy could contribute to neurodevelopmental disorders, potentially including autism. She expressed worry that the president’s comments might scare expectant mothers into avoiding Tylenol even when it is medically appropriate.
Internal medicine physician Dr. Shoshana Ungerleider also stressed the importance of treating fever during pregnancy, arguing that it is significantly riskier to leave a fever untreated. “Tylenol remains the safest option we have in those situations,” she stated.
Experts have highlighted that alternatives to acetaminophen, such as aspirin or ibuprofen, can pose serious risks during pregnancy, particularly in the later stages. Dr. Gounder stressed the dangers of pregnant women opting for these less safe medications due to misinformation or fear stemming from political rhetoric, while Dr. Fleischman reinforced that acetaminophen should be taken as needed for headaches, fevers, or other pain symptoms during pregnancy.
Research supports the continued use of acetaminophen during pregnancy, with a large-scale study published last year analyzing data from 2.5 million pregnancies. This study found no increased risk of autism in children whose mothers used acetaminophen. Lead author Viktor H. Ahlqvist of the Karolinska Institutet in Sweden reiterated that acetaminophen remains the recommended option for managing pain and fever in pregnant women.
Health experts across the globe have pushed back against the Trump administration’s claims, with the European Medicines Agency affirming that there is no new evidence to warrant changes in acetaminophen usage recommendations for pregnant women. Steffen Thirstrup, the EMA’s chief medical officer, reasserted, “Paracetamol remains an important option to treat pain or fever in pregnant women.”
In light of these developments, healthcare providers urge pregnant women to consult their doctors to determine the best course of action regarding medication use. While acetaminophen is generally recommended for fevers above 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit, it should only be used when necessary and under medical advice.
As the debate continues, the concern remains that misinformation and political posturing may undermine the health and safety of pregnant women. The stakes are high, and the health community is committed to ensuring that expectant mothers receive accurate information and appropriate care during this critical time.
