Many people who are pregnant wonder about which medications are safe to take, especially when dealing with common issues such as headaches, muscle aches, or fevers. Acetaminophen (also known by the brand name Tylenol) is one of the most widely used medicines for pain and fever, and it is also the most commonly used pain reliever during pregnancy. Because new studies and headlines sometimes raise concerns, it’s natural to feel unsure about whether acetaminophen is safe for you and your baby.
This handout brings together the recommendations from Health Canada and the Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada (SOGC) to give you clear, up-to-date information.
What is acetaminophen?
Acetaminophen is a medication used to:
- Relieve mild to moderate pain (such as headaches, muscle pain, joint pain, or discomfort from minor injuries).
- Reduce fever.
- It has been available for decades and has been taken safely by millions of people, including pregnant and breastfeeding women.
What do experts say about safety in pregnancy?
Health Canada carefully reviews the scientific evidence on medicines. At this time, it has concluded that there is no conclusive evidence that using acetaminophen as directed during pregnancy causes autism, ADHD, or other developmental problems in children.
Similarly, the Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada (SOGC) has reviewed the research and continues to recommend acetaminophen as a safe, appropriate first-line option for treating pain and fever in pregnancy.
TRIO endorses statements by both organizations that emphasize the overall scientific evidence does not show a clear link between acetaminophen use in pregnancy and autism or other long-term problems in children.
Why use acetaminophen in pregnancy?
Fever and pain during pregnancy are not just uncomfortable — they can sometimes pose risks:
High fever, especially in the first trimester, has been linked to a slightly higher risk of birth defects.
Ongoing or severe pain can affect your sleep, mental health, and overall well-being.
This means that treating pain and fever is important for both you and your baby. Acetaminophen remains the safest and most effective choice for these symptoms when needed.
How to use acetaminophen safely
When taking acetaminophen during pregnancy, follow these simple safety tips:
- Use the lowest effective dose.
- Take the smallest amount that helps relieve your symptoms.
- Use it for the shortest time needed.
- Only take it for as long as your pain or fever lasts, rather than as a daily routine.
- Follow the instructions on the label.
- Do not take more than the recommended dose in a 24-hour period.
- Check other medicines.
- Many cold and flu products also contain acetaminophen. Be careful not to double up.
- Talk to your healthcare provider.
If you need acetaminophen regularly, or if you’re not sure about dosing, ask your doctor, midwife, or pharmacist for advice.
Common questions about acetaminophen and pregnancy
Q: Does acetaminophen cause autism or ADHD?
A: Current evidence does not prove a cause-and-effect relationship. Health Canada and SOGC both state that acetaminophen is safe to use as directed in pregnancy.
Q: Can I use acetaminophen throughout pregnancy?
A: Yes, it is considered safe in all trimesters, as long as you stick to the recommended dose and duration.
Q: Is ibuprofen or aspirin safer?
A: No. Ibuprofen and aspirin are generally not recommended during pregnancy, especially in the later stages. Acetaminophen is the safer option.
Q: Can I take acetaminophen while breastfeeding?
A: Yes. Small amounts may pass into breast milk, but it is considered safe for nursing babies.
Key Takeaways
Acetaminophen (Tylenol) is safe to use in pregnancy when needed for pain or fever. The best approach is to:
- Take it only when necessary.
- Use the lowest dose that works.
- Limit use to the shortest possible time.
- Untreated pain and fever can also be harmful, so don’t hesitate to take acetaminophen if you need it. If you have questions about how much to take or how often, your healthcare provider can guide you.
It’s normal to feel concerned when you hear news stories questioning the safety of medications in pregnancy. Rest assured that both Health Canada and the SOGC, Canada’s leading medical organization for women’s health, continue to support acetaminophen as the safest first-choice treatment for fever and pain in pregnancy.
When used correctly, acetaminophen helps protect both your comfort and your baby’s health.
